Brasilia World Cup stadium needs rest

RIO DE JANEIRO -- World football's governing body FIFA has expressed its concern at the playing surface of Brasilia's Mane Garrincha World Cup stadium.

The pitch came under criticism by players from both sides after Brazil's 3-0 victory over Japan in last June's Confederations Cup.

FIFA officials have recommended the stadium be rested until the World Cup begins on June 12 following an inspection of the venue's surface on Wednesday.

"We learned today that there could be more matches here. That's one of our concerns because it needs to have rest before the World Cup," FIFA delegate Chris Unger was quoted telling local media.

Teams have high expectations of the stadiums' quality and we have no excuses."

The Mane Garrincha stadium will host seven World Cup matches including the playoff for third place.