Brazil to face Panama at the Maracanã ahead of the Copa | OneFootball

The Brazilian National Team will face Panama in its farewell match in the country before heading to the United States. The Amarelinha will take on the Central American team at Maracanã on May 31, closing the first phase of preparation for the World Cup.

This will be the opportunity for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad to perform for the last time in front of the Brazilian fans, marking the start of their quest for a sixth world championship title.

The Panamanian team is currently ranked 33rd in the FIFA Ranking and is in Group L of the World Cup, alongside England, Croatia, and Ghana.

For CBF president Samir Xaud, the match will seal the pact between the team and the fans as they set their sights on the world’s biggest national team tournament.

“I think it’s very symbolic that this farewell takes place in such an important and iconic venue. Maracanã is the home of the Brazilian National Team, a stadium known worldwide and always the stage for great performances. Receiving the affection and support of the fans will be fundamental for the team, which will depart for the USA the very next day,” commented the official.

The Brazilian National Team will train at Granja Comary in the days leading up to the match. For coach Carlo Ancelotti, it is important to feel the warmth of the fans before heading off to compete in the World Cup.

“I really like Maracanã, it’s a grand stage, full of history. We have everything it takes to play a high-level World Cup, we are preparing very well, the players are proud to serve the National Team and this exchange of energy before the tournament will be very good,” he emphasized.

Paquetá and Casemiro played in the last match between Brazil and Panama, in 2019, in PortoCredits: Lucas Figueiredo/CBF

Before facing Panama, Brazil will have two big clashes ahead in the next FIFA window, when they will take on France and Croatia, in Boston and Orlando, respectively. The squad announcement for these matches will take place on March 16, at the CBF headquarters in Rio de Janeiro.

The preparation has been carried out with great care and attention by the National Teams Department.

“We are taking every measure to ensure the best working conditions. Our planning started as soon as we secured qualification, with inspections and technical visits, from choosing the training site and hotel to logistical issues. Not to mention the tireless work of the coaching staff, monitoring games, athletes, and taking care of physical and technical aspects,” said Rodrigo Caetano, General Coordinator of Men’s National Teams at CBF.

“CBF has provided us with everything necessary to have a great World Cup. It has always been everyone’s wish to have a farewell on Brazilian soil, especially at Maracanã, because of everything it involves and what it represents,” Rodrigo added.

Information about ticket sales will be announced soon.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.