According to the locals here, Brazil inherited many things from Portugal that shaped and characterised the Brazilian culture. Brazil had been colonised by the Portuguese centuries ago.
The connection is reflected in the language they speak, the history and culture they share, and the names of a couple of football clubs that sound similar.
"We support Portugal when Brazil is not playing. We have a connect and as long as they don't play Brazil we back them. But unfortunately, they are now out of the tournament and we can't do anything but feel sorry for them," says John, a tourist guide here.
Before their crucial World Cup match against the United States of America, Portugal found a lot of support from the Brazilians, but that was not enough for them to qualify for the knockout stages of the sporting extravaganza.
"The disastrous 4-0 defeat to Germany left their campaign in tatters and it was always going to be difficult for them from then on. Because Ghana and USA are two fighting units as they have showed in the World Cup," says Pablo, a resident of Sao Paulo.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
