Eriksson admits heat could be major factor

Sven-Goran Eriksson has admitted that England must "beat the heat" if they are to beat Brazil.

England's only previous experience of such conditions in this year's World Cup was in their final group match with Nigeria a week ago.

The temperature was 93 degrees and the high humidity level also was a big factor.

It will clearly favour the Brazilians on Friday - and Eriksson quipped that he would even be happy to take part in a rain dance if it had the desired effect.

Eriksson said: "If I could change the kick-off time so we could play in the evening, then I would do it at once because that would suit us better.

"The perfect conditions for us were like against Argentina in the Sapporo Dome and also Denmark last Saturday.

"In an ideal world I would hope for plenty of rain because we are used to rain in England. I would be happy to do a rain dance! Let's just hope it works.

"Against Nigeria the players did pace themselves quite well and did quite well in the second half and it is important they take on board as much water as possible to rehydrate."