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Brazil hopes to feed off famed Maracana in soccer semifinal

RIO DE JANEIRO (AP) — Brazil will look for inspiration from playing at the historic Maracana Stadium when it faces Honduras in the semifinals of the men's Olympic soccer tournament on Wednesday.

The decisive game will mark the debut of many of Brazil's youngsters at the famed venue, which is expected to be packed with nearly 70,000 fans hopeful of seeing Brazil stay on track for its first soccer gold medal.

"We know about the importance of Maracana in the history of Brazilian football," Brazil defender Marquinhos said. "We grew up hearing stories about the stadium. For everything that has happened there, it's a special place for us.