Ronaldinho and Kaka to return to Brazil's soccer team for match against Algeria

Ronaldinho and Kaka are going to play for Brazil's national team in a friendly match against Algeria at the end of the month in France. Coach Dunga summoned them and 20 others for the match on Aug. 22 in Montpellier.

Photo: Ronaldinho and Kaka to return to Brazil's soccer team for match against Algeria

Kaka and Ronaldinho skipped the Copa America won by Brazil last month to take vacation following the European season.

"Our job is to do what is best for the national team. We need to summon the players who we feel are the best for the team," Dunga said.

Dunga made other four changes from the squad that won the South American championship in Venezuela, adding goalkeeper Julio Cesar, defender Lucio, midfielder Lucas and striker Rafael Sobis. Among those not called for the friendly were Helton, Alex, Gilberto Silva, Anderson, Afonso and Fred.

It will be Brazil's 12th friendly since Dunga replaced Carlos Alberto Parreira after the team's World Cup quarterfinal elimination in France. Brazil has won seven games, lost one and drawn three under Dunga.

Brazil has beaten Algeria in all three games between the two, including in the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

The Brazilian soccer confederation also announced Brazil will play Mexico on Sept. 12 in Boston. Brazil also may face Canada at a location and a date still to be determined.

Brazil and Mexico have played 30 times, with the Brazilians winning 18 matches and Mexico winning six, including their last two meetings: at the 2005 Confederations Cup and in the Copa America in June.

Since winning the Copa America last month, Brazil has turned its attention to World Cup qualifying that begins in October. Brazil will debut against Colombia and then will face Ecuador, Peru and Uruguay.

"We will play two friendlies in September before the qualifying matches, we have to take advantage of these opportunities and keep the national team active," supervisor Americo Faria said.