FIFA sets 2014 World Cup match kick-off times

Associated Press

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

FIFA says the northeast coastal cities of Natal, Recife and Salvador each have two of their four group-stage matches starting at 1 p.m. local time.

Manaus, in the western Amazon rainforest, hosts two matches at 3 p.m., plus the 9 p.m. match on the opening Saturday, June 14.

FIFA says 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 Dec. 6, 2013, at the Costa do Sauipe in Bahia.

The 2014 World Cup will be held June 12-July 13.