The US national team fell 2-1 in its first closed-door scrimmage with São Paulo FC in Brazil on Thursday, according to reports by U.S. Soccer and MLSsoccer.com.
The United States’ lone goal came from Chris Wondolowski, the 2012 MLS MVP and member of the San Jose Earthquakes. Brazilian national team veteran Luís Fabiano scored goals for São Paulo.
Reporters were not allowed in the scrimmage, but MLSsoccer.com reported that 24 of the 26 players took the field Thursday and different lineups were used in each half.
The second scrimmage between the sides is scheduled for Jan. 20.
“We are excited about getting down to São Paulo and continuing the work,” U.S. coach Jurgen Klinsmann said before the team departed for Brazil. “This is a huge opportunity to get to know our environment for the World Cup.”
