Republic to play Brazil friendly

Andy Reid should be in the Republic squad to play Brazil

The Republic of Ireland will play Brazil in a friendly at Croke Park on Wednesday 6 February next year.

The Football Association of Ireland has confirmed that the five-times world champions will visit Dublin subject to final agreement on terms with the GAA.

Brazil's last visit to Dublin was in February 2004 when the World Cup holders were held to a scoreless draw.

"We are committed to bringing some of the best teams in the world to Dublin," said FAI chief executive John Delaney.

"We want to give our fans the opportunity to see our side in action against the game's top players.

"Brazil enjoyed their last visit to Dublin and were very keen to visit again," he added.

The Republic have met Brazil on four previous occasions with one victory and one draw over the South Americans, their only win coming in 1987 when Liam Brady scored the winner in a 1-0 win at Lansdowne Road.

The Irish side face Wales in their final Euro 2008 qualifier on 17 November and continue their search for a new manager following the sacking of Steve Staunton.