Brazil ready for Argentina test

The second edition of the 'Superclasico de las Americas' will get under way with the first leg in Goiania and will involve only players who play their club football in Brazil and Argentina.

Sao Paulo forward Luis Fabiano is expected to be paired up front with Santos man Neymar, and is hopeful they can make a telling impact against the Albicelestes at the Estadio Serra Dourada.

"I would be pleased to play alongside Neymar. A play started by him could turn the match in our favour," said Luis Fabiano, who has not played for the national team since the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

"He is a fantastic player. It is better to play with him than against.

"I've been unable to play frequently for Brazil due to injuries but it is up to myself to show whether I am back to stay or not."

Argentina forward Juan Manuel Martinez, who plies his trade with Brazilian club Corinthians, admits there is a huge buzz surrounding the contest.

"Expectation is huge," he told Radio 9. "The Brazilian coach (Mano Menezes) wants to beat us no matter how.

"He named the best players around at the moment, such as Neymar and Lucas. And Argentina are also under pressure to win.

"I also have plenty of personal expectation with this new chance in the national team. It's a nice opportunity for me."

Palmeiras striker Hernan Barcos was handed his first international call-up for the recent World Cup qualifier against Peru but did not get on the pitch, and is hoping that will change against Brazil.

"When I was a kid, I dreamt of playing alongside (Gabriel) Batistuta or (Hernan) Crespo, so this is a dream come true," the 28-year-old told www.copaargentina.org

"I was looking forward to being selected for a long time and it was difficult because Argentina have great forwards.

"This call-up comes at the best time of my career, at the best age. I've gained a lot of experience."

Brazil won the first edition of the 'Superclasico' last year, beating Argentina 2-0 on aggregate.