Brazil returns home to warm reception despite surprise World Cup quarterfinal elimination

Brazil returns home after World Cup elimination

RIO DE JANEIRO — Brazil’s national team returned home Sunday to a friendly welcome despite its surprise elimination from the World Cup quarterfinals.

The team’s chartered plane landed first in Rio de Janeiro, where players, including goalkeeper Julio Cesar and defender Juan, were warmly applauded.

The plane then flew to Sao Paulo for other players to stay there or take connections elsewhere. Coach Dunga flew south to Porto Alegre.

Some fans also gathered at Sao Paulo’s airport, but the players could not be seen as they left through side doors.

Brazil was eliminated Friday 2-1 by the Netherlands.