Soccer: Canada vs. Brazil

Canada can get just a little too uppity and annoying sometimes, am I right? With their superior health-care system, more enlightened criminal-justice policies, and protective shelter for conscientious objectors of all stripes, Canada sometimes seems just a little too smug for its own good. Which is why it should be a particular pleasure to watch the Canadian side get creamed by Brazil in this international “friendly”—a match pitting one of the world’s great hockey nations against the most legendary national soccer team on the planet. With World Cup qualifying rounds getting underway next month, Brazil is bringing a powerful arsenal of players along, including Kaká, star midfielder for AC Milan, who was named FIFA World Player of the Year for 2007. Canada’s roster includes . . . well, their Web site is such a mess I have no idea. Brazil is currently in second place (behind Argentina) in FIFA world rankings. Canada is tied for 62nd place with Bosnia-Herzegovina. You do the math. Qwest Field, 800 Occidental Ave. S., 381-7940, www.qwestfield.com. $35–$125. 7:30 p.m. MARK D. FEFER

Sat., May 31, 7:30 p.m., 2008