Serbia men's national football team to play Cabo Verde in May 31 Lisbon friendly

BELGRADE - The Serbia men's national football team will play Cabo Verde in a friendly match in Lisbon on May 31, the Football Association of Serbia (FSS) announced on Wednesday.

The game, to be played at the Belenenses stadium, is scheduled for 3.30 pm, the FSS said, noting that a friendly against Mexico in Toluca had already been arranged for June 4.

Serbia boss Veljko Paunovic said logistics and sporting criteria had been the key factors in the process of selecting opponents.

"Considering the circumstances and logistical difficulties, in collaboration with FIFA, we have reached the best possible solution with a date that precedes the trip to Mexico," Paunovic said, adding that, in the process, the FSS had also sought to avoid putting the players under further physical strain after a long and demanding club season.

Paunovic noted that a new opportunity to play against two World Cup teams was exceptionally important for his players.