FIFA Sets 2014 World Cup Match Kick-Off Times

FIFA has selected kick-off times for 2014 World Cup group games, with several matches scheduled in early afternoon in tropical climates.

FIFA announced 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 said 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 December 6, 2013, at the Costa do Sauipe in Bahia.

The 2014 World Cup is played June 12-July 13.