Brazil ups security for Confederations Cup final

More than 10,000 police officers will be deployed at the Maracana Stadium Sunday for the Confederations Cup final between Brazil and Spain.

A further 7,400 military troops will be on guard across other parts of Rio de Janeiro in the biggest security operation for a sporting event in Brazil's history, reports Xinhua.

Mass protests that have swept Brazil during the past two weeks are expected to continue Sunday. Demonstrators have planned a 1.7 km march from Saens Pena Square to the Maracana before the kick-off. Up to 10 additional rallies are planned in other parts of the city.

"We hope that other groups will join us and that the police do not impede our right to protest," said Marcelo Concentino from Global Justice lobby group.

The demonstrations began in Sao Paulo two weeks ago against rise in public transport fares but quickly turned into a nationwide movement against corruption and the high cost of next year's FIFA World Cup. Several of the rallies have been marred by violence with police firing rubber bullets and teargas in clashes with protestors.