Brasileirão 2007 Stars Stoked To Face Brazil

Dunga has been preparing what is basically the Under 23 Seleção for next year's Olympic Games in Beijing (Peking) next year, although Dunga still has to chose from the Under-23s in Europe plus up to three players who are over 23 years of age.

The match is set to take place this Sunday the 9th of December at the João Havelange Stadium - better known as the Engenhão - and ticket sales have been slow due to the absence of big Brazil names and a lingering expectation that the players will be too tired or too green to put on a great show.

Nevertheless, although some have already bowed out alleging previous commitments, many are thrilled to be able to play against Brazil. “Even though it's going to be a bit of a party atmosphere I'm going onto the pitch with the same determination as if I was wearing a Flamengo shirt”, explained right-back Leonardo Moura.

Fluminense centre-back Thiago Silva was expected to be part of the Seleção Olímpica, but will have to content himself with a place in the Best of Brasileirão squad - albeit with an eye on showing Dunga that he's worthy of a ticket to China next year.

“I expect it to be a great game and will be preparing for the match as if it were the final of the Libertadores Cup and hope that I can demonstrate that I have what it takes not just to be part of the Best of Brasileirão 2007 but the Seleção Olímpica as well”, he explained.