Brazil match is not just about money, says FA

Capello has said it's important for England to test themselves against South American opposition (GETTY IMAGES)

The Football Association yesterday insisted England's friendly against Brazil next month will provide a crucial tune-up for the World Cup and is not motivated by the prospect of financial gain.

A report has stated that Brazil will receive 10 times the revenue of England – £4m compared to £400,000 – from the match in Qatar on 14 November. The game is part of a reciprocal arrangement that saw the South Americans agree to mark the opening of the new Wembley over two years ago with a friendly.

An FA spokesman insisted the trip to Doha will provide England with crucial experience against the World Cup favourites. "It's not a money-making exercise for us," he said. "Brazil are the world's No 1-ranked team and commercial matters are secondary. As Fabio Capello said on Wednesday night, it's an opportunity for England to test themselves against top South American opposition."

It is understood that the FA will also make a substantial return from the match. It holds the UK television rights – worth around £3m – which should help it reach close to parity with Brazil in financial terms.