World Cup Preparations Heat Up as Brazil Face France and Croatia

Brazil have kicked off their full-scale preparations ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with a series of international friendlies lined up against top-tier opposition. Following their upcoming friendly against Senegal on Saturday, the Selecão are set to take on Tunisia on 18 November.

As part of their build-up to the World Cup — which begins in June 2026 — Brazil have scheduled two high-profile friendlies in March next year. According to an ESPN report, Carlo Ancelotti’s side will play France on 28 March at the Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, before facing Croatia on 31 March in Orlando, Florida.

While neither football federation has issued an official statement yet, sources suggest that both the Brazilian and French federations have reached an agreement to stage these matches in the United States.

Brazil have already secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup, while France can book their ticket if they defeat Ukraine in their upcoming qualifier on Thursday.

After the clash with Brazil, France are also expected to play another friendly, with Mexico or the United States likely to be their next opponents, ESPN added.

Proposed Fixture Schedule