Brazil received an extraordinary send-off before jetting to the World Cup, with Scotland's group-stage rivals taking part in a unique airport ritual ahead of the tournament.
Carlo Ancelotti's side departed for the United States on Monday as preparations intensified for their opening matches, but it was what happened before take-off that attracted widespread attention.
The Selecao's aircraft was given a ceremonial "baptism" at Galeao Airport in Rio de Janeiro, with airport fire crews creating a giant arch of water for the plane to pass through before leaving the runway.
The long-standing aviation tradition is often reserved for landmark occasions and special flights, with the symbolic gesture widely viewed as a blessing for the journey ahead.
Airport officials reportedly sought permission from the Brazilian Football Confederation before carrying out the ceremony for one of the favourites to lift the trophy.
The ritual is commonly associated with wishing travellers good fortune and safe passage, while also marking the significance of a major departure.
Brazil supporters will undoubtedly hope it proves a lucky omen as Ancelotti attempts to guide the South American giants to another World Cup triumph.
Brazil received an extraordinary send-off before jetting to the World Cup, with Scotland's group-stage rivals taking part in a unique airport ritual ahead of the tournament
|SPORT TV
The team then boarded a customised Boeing 767-300ER adorned with Brazilian Football Confederation branding as they began their journey to Newark, New Jersey.
The aircraft itself has an interesting history, having previously been used by The Rolling Stones during the legendary band's 60th anniversary tour.
Brazil have been drawn in Group C alongside Scotland, Morocco and Haiti, setting up a mouth-watering showdown between the South Americans and Steve Clarke's side later in the tournament.
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While spirits appeared high during the departure, uncertainty continues to surround Neymar's fitness.
The Brazil superstar travelled with the squad despite concerns over a calf problem that has disrupted his preparations.
Neymar was named in Ancelotti's squad last month, though reports later suggested the injury was more serious than initially believed.
The forward was unable to fully participate in training after linking up with his international team-mates and is now facing a race against time to feature in the early stages of the competition.
Current expectations suggest he could miss Brazil's opening Group C encounter against Morocco next weekend.
His availability remains a major talking point ahead of Brazil's clash with Scotland later in the month, with Ancelotti hoping his star player can recover in time to make an impact during the tournament.
Brazil haven't won the World Cup since 2002
| GETTYSeveral members of Brazil's squad are no strangers to baptism ceremonies themselves.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker famously helped oversee the baptism of former Reds team-mate Roberto Firmino, while teenage star Endrick underwent a similar ceremony alongside his wife last year.
Brazil's last World Cup triumph came all the way back in 2002.
Ronaldo scored twice in a 2-0 victory over Germany, with the nation yet to make the final of the tournament in the time since.