Brazil's Scolari confirms 9 names for World Cup
By Associated Press
Apr 24, 2014 3:20 PM CDT
FC Dallas' Hendry Thomas, left, kicks as Toronto FC goalkeeper Julio Cesar (30) controls the ball and Toronto's Steven Caldwell (13) observes during an MLS soccer game on Saturday, April 19, 2014, in Frisco, Texas. (AP Photo/The Dallas Morning News, Mark M. Hancock) MANDATORY CREDIT, NO SALES, MAGAZINES...   (Associated Press)

SAO PAULO (AP) — Coach Luis Felipe Scolari has confirmed nine players who will make Brazil's squad for the World Cup at home.

They are David Luiz, Oscar, Ramires, Willian, Paulinho, Julio Cesar, Thiago Silva, Fred and Neymar.

Scolari said at a local event that he talked to some of the players on a recent trip to Europe to assure they had his support and were guaranteed making the World Cup.

The coach said four were up for captain: Silva, Luiz, Cesar and Fred. Silva was the captain in recent friendlies.

Scolari will announce the official 23-man squad on May 7. Seven possible substitutes will be announced later.

Brazil will play friendlies against Panama and Serbia before the World Cup opener against Croatia on June 12.

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