Intro:

Christ the Redeemer statue is reopened in Rio on Friday (11th July) following renovation works.

Script:

It probably wasn't the weather Brazil and Rio de Janeiro were hoping for as the Christ the Redeemer statue was officially reopened following renovation works.

Then again the weather reflects the sombre mood the local residents since the dramatic 7-1 semi-final defeat inflicted upon Brazil by Germany on Tuesday.

As the rain poured down over Rio and clouds shrouded the iconic statue, Rio's Archbishop Don Orani Tempesta officiated over the event.

Brazilians would have hoped that the reopening of the monument could have been a more joyous occasion, but the shock exit from the tournament topped with Argentina making the final has made it a difficult few days for the country and its people.

Rain has poured down since the Selecao's elimination, but football fans will be hoping for a break in the storms ahead of Sunday's final at the Maracana between Germany and Argentina.