Team sponsorships evolved into a multi-million business with firms starting to pay huge sums in the 1970s when Nike and others entered the fray.

No firm reveals how much they pay top players on the pitch but analysts and media estimate that Nike's contract with Brazil as well as deals with large soccer associations such as Germany are worth a double-digit millions amount annually.

Adidas also has some 300 players under contract, allowing them to wear the three-stripe boots even if their national associations are partners of competitors. England's David Beckham will wear Adidas shoes and a jersey by Umbro.

But sometimes such deals create problems.

Dutchman Johann Cruyff, a Puma partner, refused to play in an Adidas kit in the 1974 final against West Germany -- he did so only after getting a two-striped version instead.