Gareth Southgate explains why he's delighted England are facing Brazil

06 November 2023 , 16:40

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England manager Gareth Southgate (Image: Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

England will face five-time World Cup winners Brazil at Wembley as part of their build-up to the Euros.

Gareth Southgate's men will face Brazil on Saturday, March 23, and another heavyweight opponent in Belgium three days later on Tuesday, March 26.‌ The Brazil game will be a huge draw and a big test for England just three months ahead of the Euros as they have already clinched their place at the finals.

England boss Southgate wants two big games for his players to get them having already qualified for the tournament with two games to spare.

The Three Lions also face Malta and North Macedonia later this month, knowing that they still want to win both games to ensure they are among the top seeds for next month’s draw.

Southgate said: “I am happy to have two strong matches in March as we build towards the EURO finals. It is important we take every opportunity to test ourselves against top opposition.

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“Before then, we have our last qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia coming up. Getting two positive results is essential if we are to make sure of being top seeds in the EURO draw next month.

“We can’t afford to think the job is done as there is still work to do, while every second for us together in camp counts if we are to give ourselves the best chance of success next summer.”

Brazil were last at Wembley in November 2017 for a goalless draw in what was the 26th meeting between the two nations. Next year’s fixture will be the first time that the Three Lions have faced South American opposition in almost six years.

Belgium have also already qualified for EURO 2024 and, even though there could yet be a chance of England facing them in the tournament, FA chiefs have confirmed the fixture.

John Cross