Brazil to play friendlies against Panama, Serbia

Rio de Janeiro, May 15 (IANS) The Brazilian football team will play two international friendlies against Panama and Serbia ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup inaugural match against Croatia, June 12 in Sao Paulo.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said Wednesday the 23-member squad will travel to the east central city of Goiania, June 1, where it will play Panama two days later, reports Xinhua. The team will then play Serbia in Sao Paolo, June 6. Both Serbia and Panama have failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Brazil open their campaign against Croatia and then face Mexico June 17, in the northeast city of Fortaleza. Their third and final group match will be against Cameroon June 23, in the capital Brasilia.

The tournament from June 12-July 13 will feature 32 national teams, including host country team Brazil, already a five-time World Cup winner.