As the first set of qualifiers and the 2012 UEFA European Championship get ready to kick, we give you a list of the top FIFA friendlies to watch during the Memorial Day Weekend.
Mexico-Wales on May 27
Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez and company look to get their final kinks out as they enter their last set of friendlies before the CONCACAF 2014 World Cup Qualifiers. Mexico faces a tough Wales team that will bring some star power to the game, including Liverpool’s Craig Bellamy.
USA-Scotland on May 26
The U.S., coming off a historic win against Italy, gets its final preparations under German coach Jurgen Klinsmann before entering the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The team will be looking to get a top performance from Premier League striker Clint Dempsey, who has had the best season by any American in the English league.
Costa Rica-Guatemala on May 25
Though not the highest profile of teams, Costa Rica and Guatemala star in one of the few friendly matches that seem truly paired up in talent and could also have implications within their region. Both teams are looking to prepare for their group matches in the third phase of the CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers. They hope to make it through to the hexagonal.
Denmark–Brazil on May 26
Brazil and its flurry of stars will take on Denmark as it continues its summer tour of friendlies. The South American team is depending on friendlies to stay fit until the 2014 World Cup, which it hosts. Denmark will have a tough opponent in Brazil, as the European team plays its final tune-up games before traveling to the European Championship. It hopes to make a surprise run with the help of Liverpool FC star Daniel Agger.
Spain-Serbia on May 26
World champions Spain embarks on its final set of friendlies before heading to the European Championships to defend its 2008 title. All the stars — barring Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao players who are participating in the Copa del Rey final — will face a young Serbian side looking to gain experience by playing the best team in the world.
For more sports news, visit Terra.com.
