Less than half of Brazilians favor the nation's hosting of the World Cup in June, with a majority in the football-crazed nation believing that the tournament will do more harm than good.
In a poll, just 48 percent of Brazilians support hosting the event, down from 52 percent in February and dropping below 50 percent for the first time.
The approval rate has dropped from a high of 79 percent in November 2008, a year after Brazil was selected, amid cost overruns, deadly construction accidents and concern that delays in building stadiums and airports in 12 cities could embarrass the country on the international stage.
Indeed, the number of Brazilians opposed to hosting the 32-nation event is also rising, with 41 percent against it now, up from 38 percent in February and 10 percent in 2008.
The result is surprising for the football-loving nation that has won five World Cup titles, more than any other country. Brazil last hosted the tournament in 1950.
