Mar 6 • 20:14 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Brazil faces Panama at Maracanã before departing for the World Cup

Brazil's national football team will play against Panama on May 31 at Maracanã Stadium as their last match before heading to the United States for the 2026 World Cup.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) announced that Brazil will face Panama on May 31 at the iconic Maracanã Stadium. This match signals Brazil's last engagement in the country before flying out to the United States for the upcoming World Cup in 2026. The Brazilian team is gearing up for this significant event, with the head coach Carlo Ancelotti expressing his excitement about performing in such a storied venue, describing it as a grand stage full of history that contributes positively to the team's preparation.

Currently ranked 33rd by FIFA, Panama will compete within Group L of the World Cup alongside England, Croatia, and Ghana. The match against Brazil not only serves as a preparatory outing for the Brazilian team but also provides Panama with invaluable experience as they approach the global tournament. Prior to this encounter at Maracanã, Brazil will also engage in two friendlies on the upcoming FIFA date, facing France in Boston and Croatia in Orlando, with player convocations set to be announced on March 16.

This final match in Brazil is seen as an opportunity to build atmosphere and team spirit before they embark on their World Cup journey. With Ancelotti emphasizing the pride players feel in representing the national team, the upcoming fixture is anticipated to foster a positive exchange of energy and set the tone for a high-level performance in the World Cup. The Brazilian national team has a strong historical record in the tournament, and this match against Panama will serve as a crucial stepping stone in their preparations for the challenges ahead.

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