Brazil impressively qualified for next year's World Cup finals in South Africa

Brazil could play the Republic of Ireland at Croke Park in March in a money-spinning friendly.

The Republic's failure to qualify for the World Cup finals was a major blow for the FAI's finances.

However, the mooted 3 March friendly - almost certainly at Croke Park - would boost the FAI's coffers.

Reports from Brazil on Thursday said that the game was on the cards although the FAI said that talks were at "a preliminary stage".

"These are very preliminary discussions and it's by no means certain that the game will take place," an FAI spokesman told BBC Sport.

"We will be also be looking at tomorrow's World Cup draw to see possible match-ups for us in terms of potential friendlies in the run-up to the finals."

Croke Park appears to be available for 3 March date although the stadium's office was unable to provide any details about the suggested visit of the Brazilians.

The IRFU will be using Croke Park for the Six Nations opener against Italy on 6 February but the Grand Slams champions' next home game doesn't come until the 13 March clash against Wales.

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