Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff insists the country will host the "World Cup of World Cups" despite a series of setbacks affecting preparations for the event.
Rousseff used Twitter to counter FIFA president Sepp Blatter who a day earlier accused Brazil of waiting too long to implement World Cup projects, reports Xinhua.
"Brazilians start 2014 confident that they are going to host the World Cup of World Cups. In Brazil, the World Cup is going to be at home because this is the home of football," Rousseff said.
Brazil's World Cup preparations have been hit by construction delays to stadiums, roads, airports and hotels. In addition, five workers have died at stadium construction sites. Meanwhile nationwide anti-government protests that began during the Confederations Cup in June have continued in several cities.
Rousseff is adamant that tourists will feel safe throughout the June 12-July 13 event despite the likelihood of continued demonstrations.
"All who come to Brazil will be well received because we are happy and accommodating. We love football and for that reason we are proud to be hosts," Rousseff said.