Favourites Brazil take on Russia in the third round of action in Group A. The host nation are already through to the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2007 quarter-finals, and their opponents will join them if they can take all three points.

The match
Brazil - Russia, Tuesday 6 November, 11:00 (local time)

The stakes
The Russians must still be regretting their loss to Mexico in their opening game. They managed to get themselves back on track against the Solomon Islands, but Nikolai Pisarev's men must now defeat the world champions to secure their passage. Victory over the Auriverde would put Russia in the knockout stages whatever happens in the other Group A fixture.

As for the Brazilians, a record of two wins in two games will not have erased the concerns of coach Alexandre Soares following their tough triumph over Mexico. The holders will therefore be keen to boost morale with a third straight success.

The players
Booked twice in Brazil's first two matches, Buru is forced to sit on the sidelines, while Russia's Anton Shkarin is still uncertain after having missed the Solomon Islands encounter.

The history
Facing their third ever FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup game, the Russians have a chance of ending Brazil's run of nine consecutive wins in the competition.

The words
"Against Brazil, you need to be 100 per cent physically and technically, and play with heart and character. Even then, something will no doubt be missing." Nikolai Pisarev, Russia coach

"After the match against Mexico, we left the pitch disappointed. From time to time, my players overestimate their talent. We're going to have to make a few changes." Alexandre Soares, Brazil coach