Host Brazil beat Croatia in the opening game of the World Cup, 3-1, but surprisingly had to come from behind to do it.

Brazil defender Marcelo rocketed in an embarrassing own goal, putting Croatia in the lead just 11 minutes in. It fell to Brazil's star Neymar to bring them back, and he did so, scoring in the 28th minute and adding a penalty in the 71st after Fred went down in the box.

Oscar finished things off with the third goal in added time.

Brazil profited from a few close calls. Many saw the penalty as soft, and a goal by Croatia was disallowed after contact with Brazil's keeper, Julio Cesar.

But few in Sao Paulo or elsewhere in Brazil will care, as the tournament favorites got the win they expected and Neymar announced himself with a strong World Cup debut.