The first test game of redeveloped “Gigante” in Porto Alegre went smoothly. Especially on the pitch, where Internacional dominated Caxias 4:0. Only 10,000 people were allowed in, but more seats should be available soon.

Estádio José Pinheiro Borda was reopened on Saturday, joining 8 other 2014 World Cup venues already in operation. The league fixture against Caxias was limited to only the lower east stand, because it was the first test event after complete reconstruction.

The hosts had no trouble distributing the 10,000 tickets available. Soon this number should increase to almost 50,000 as complete capacity for the duration of the World Cup will reach 51,800. Afterwards it may rise to 58,000-59,000 or even more as seats get reconfigured.

The Saturday game went smoothly and thus ended the 15-month wait of Inter fans, who had to leave their home ground. Despite works beginning back in 2010 the club was able to host most games during works, although with reduced capacity.

The World Cup redevelopment required some R$ 330 million. It gave the stadium new lower stands with skyboxes on top, while further luxurious rooms were created atop the upper west stand. There’s also more room beneath the stands and new staircases. All of the stadium is covered by 65 leaf-shaped steel segment, together creating a unique dome.  

Photo: Copa2014.gov.br

Photo: Copa2014.gov.br

Photo: Copa2014.gov.br