FIFA has selected kick-off times for 2014 World Cup group games.
FIFA has selected kick-off times for 2014 World Cup group games, with several matches scheduled in early afternoon in tropical climates.
FIFA says the north-east coastal cities of Natal, Recife and Salvador each have two of their four group-stage matches starting at 1 p.m. local time (1600 GMT).
Manaus, in the western Amazon rainforest, hosts two matches at 3 p.m. local time (1900 GMT), plus the late-night match on the opening Saturday, June 14, at 9 p.m (0100 GMT).
FIFA says it took into account rest periods for players, local temperatures, global broadcast schedules and fans travel plans.
FIFA s executive committee scheduled the 32-team finals tournament draw for Dec. 6, 2013, at the Costa do Sauipe in Bahia.
The 2014 World Cup is played June 12-July 13.
