Scotland will face Brazil in a friendly at the Emirates Stadium in March, it was confirmed on Tuesday.
The Scottish FA have announced that the South Americans will be the opponents for Craig Levein’s men at Arsenal’s home ground following their five-day training camp in Spain’s La Manga resort.
The Scots do not face another Euro 2012 qualifier until they play the Czech Republic at Hampden Park as far away as September, so the SFA were keen to line up friendly opposition to go with their Carling Nations Cup games against Wales and the Republic of Ireland in May.
The meeting with Brazil will be the first time the sides met since the opening game of the 1998 World Cup when the holders and subsequent Stade de France runners-up defeated Scotland 2-1 thanks to a goal from Cesar Sampaio and a Tommy Boyd own goal. John Collins had levelled for the Scots at one stage with a penalty.
“This game will not only capture the imagination of the Scotland support but also the squad, who will relish the prospect of testing their skills against one of the finest international teams in world football,” Levein said on the announcement.
“I believe the recent performances – and not simply the results (both 3-0) – against the Faroe Islands and Northern Ireland have given the whole country a lot of encouragement for the second half of the Euro 2012 qualification campaign and beyond.
“The players have a confidence in the way forward and while I believe the most important aspect of the forthcoming international break is to further cultivate a Club Scotland culture within the squad, the opportunity to play Brazil was irresistible.”
Stewart Regan, Scottish FA Chief Executive, added: “Today’s announcement will help continue the feelgood factor generated by the outstanding performance against Northern Ireland in the Carling Nations Cup.
"I am very excited about the future of the national team and I am sure Craig and his young and talented Scotland team will make the most of this experience.”