Clash of Titans: Brazil, Portugal Set for Gillette on 9/10
- Updated: July 2, 2013
A group of Brazilian fans cheer on their team during a Sept. 6, 2007 clash against Mexico at Gillette Stadium. (Photo: Chris Aduama/aduama.com)
The region’s worst kept secret was finally confirmed by the Revolution organization on Tuesday.
Weeks after the Portuguese Football Federation, along with its Brazilian counterpart, initially revealed details of an early-September clash in Foxborough, the Revolution confirmed that the soccer powerhouses will play an international friendly at Gillette Stadium on Sept. 10 at 8:30pm.
“We’re very excited to be able to present this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fans in our region who care so deeply about these two legendary national teams,” Revolution president Brian Bilello said in a statement on Tuesday. “Being able to host this match during an official FIFA window, and therefore attracting the top squads from both countries – and some of the world’s top players – means this will be a truly memorable event for everyone in attendance.”
Brazil is fresh off capturing the 2013 Confederations Cup championship after trouncing Spain 3-0 on Sunday in Rio de Janeiro. Neymar, who scored his side’s third goal in the championship clash, expressed his excitement about playing in the Commonwealth.
“It is always a thrill to come to the United States and I am very happy to play against Portugal in Boston at Gillette Stadium on September 10,” Brazil forward Neymar said in a statement. “The Boston-area has a very large Brazilian population and I invite all of our fans in the United States to come out and enjoy the match.”
A Seleção last visited Gillette Stadium on Jun. 6, 2008, when they lost an international friendly 2-0 to Venezuela, a match that attracted 54,045 fans. Prior to that, a Sept. 12, 2007 friendly between Brazil and Mexico drew 67,584 fans.
Portugal, which is ranked sixth in the latest FIFA rankings, has never played at Gillette Stadium. However, Portuguese Liga sides Benfica (2010) and Sporting (2004) have played exhibitions against the Revolution in Foxborough during the past decade.
Gillette Stadium gates will open at 6:30 p.m., after parking lots will open at 4:30 p.m. Gillette Stadium parking charges will apply for all fans.
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