Host Brazil to open Confed Cup against Japan

SAO PAULO (AP) -- Host Brazil will play Japan in next year's Confederations Cup opener, and world champion Spain will begin against Uruguay.

The draw for the eight-team tournament of continental champions was held Saturday in Sao Paulo. The event will help Brazil prepare for the 2014 World Cup.

Brazil will also play Italy and Mexico in Group A. Group B features Spain, Uruguay, Tahiti and the yet-to-be decided winner of the African Cup of Nations.

The Confederations Cup is June 15-30 in six Brazilian cities. The opener is in the capital of Brasilia and the final at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro