Great Britain vs Brazil: British Players Who Will Shine in Olympic Friendly

Traditionally, Great Britain and Brazil field two of the top international soccer teams, and they'll battle each other in an international friendly to ready themselves for the 2012 Olympic tournament.

The hometown Brits, who haven't appeared in an Olympiad since 1960, have immense pressure to win the gold, but certainly will be tested throughout. 

The exhibition match with the Brazilians will give a new-look Great Britain team its coaching staff and fans a good idea as to where they stand as the Olympic's rapidly approach. 

Let's look at the three British players who'll shine the brightest against Brazil today. 

Ryan Giggs

One of five Welsh players on Great Britain's squad, Giggs is the team captain. The 38-year-old member of Manchester United has experienced an illustrious and decorated career, and is the elder statesman of the group. 

Though he's been a fine Premier League player for many years, he's never been given the legitimate opportunity on the international level for Great Britain. 

Expect this wily veteran to give it his all to prove he still has enough gas in the tank to play at a high level against elite competition. 

From the center midfield spot, Giggs will be asked to be the British maestro against Brazil and for the duration of the Olympic games. 

Aaron Ramsey 

At 21, Ramsey should provide a youthful attacking spark for the Brits against Brazil today. He's been a energetic playmaker for Arsenal over the last four seasons, and should fill that same role for Great Britain against Brazil. 

His passing abilities will help the Brits control the ball against what can be a suffocating Brazilian defense. 

Ramsey isn't known as a lethal scorer, but he's aggressive and always tends to make things happen. 

Micah Richards 

Richards, a strong right back for Manchester City, was left off England's Euro 2012 club, so he'll undoubtedly be out to prove himself against Brazil and during the team's run at Olympic gold. 

The 24-year-old is extremely physical, giving Great Britain an intimidating force on defense against the dynamic Brazilian offense. 

With Brazil likely getting ample scoring chances, the strapping Richards will demonstrate he belongs with a sound defensive performance, while facing a Brazilian team loaded with talented strikers. 

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