Protesters, cops clash before final

The last day of the tournament saw no let-up in the protests that have taken place throughout the event.

Riot squad officers clash with protesters on a street near Maracana Stadium a few hours before the final. PIC/AFP

Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff - who was booed when she appeared at the opening game in Brasilia two weeks ago - declined to attend Sunday's final.

Before kick-off outside the stadium a small group of hooded protesters, some armed with screwdrivers and slingshots, lit a fire in the street and hurled stones at police who responded by firing tear gas and rubber bullets as helicopters circled overhead.

More than 11,000 police and troops were mobilised to ensure security for 78,000 fans at the Maracana as protests continued.u00a0