Rio grants special leave as Brazil march into World Cup knockouts

Brazil's impressive run at the FIFA World Cup has triggered celebrations beyond the football pitch, with authorities in Rio de Janeiro moving to give fans more time to support the Seleção in their upcoming knockout-stage clash.

Rio Mayor Eduardo Cavalieri announced that municipal and state government employees will be granted optional leave on Monday, when Brazil take the field in the Round of 32.

The decision was coordinated with acting Rio Governor and Judge Ricardo Couto, with an official decree set to be published in the city and state gazettes.

The move comes after Brazil secured top spot in Group C with a commanding 3-0 victory over Scotland, extending their unbeaten run and strengthening hopes of a sixth World Cup crown.

Celebrations erupted across the country following the win, while social media was flooded with memes and messages from supporters dreaming of another historic triumph. Joining the festive mood, Mayor Cavalieri shared several fan-created memes online and encouraged supporters to keep believing in Brazil's quest for "Hexa" — a sixth World Cup title.

Brazil will play their knockout-stage match on Monday at 2:00pm local time (11:00pm Bangladesh time). Their opponent is yet to be confirmed, though Japan, Sweden and the Netherlands remain possible contenders, with Japan currently emerging as the most likely matchup.