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The four team tournament at Notts County's Meadow Lane ground starts at 5.30pm with Portugal v Brazil, then at 8pm, John McDermott's Young Lions take to the field in the second match of the 'double-header' beginning what the coach says is "a great opportunity to test ourselves against some of the best Under-17 teams in the world."

England are the tournament's current holders after coming away from Oxford United and Birmingham City last year unbeaten with two draws (2-2 with Italy and 1-1 with Brazil) and a 2-0 win against Czech Republic, and coach John McDermott will be looking for similarly impressive performances from this year's crop of youngsters.

He added: "Along with the Nordic tournament in three weeks time it completes a year's cycle for this group of players and forms an important part of their ongoing development as young footballers.

"All three of our guests are technically gifted and as a sign of their quality, will be playing in the FIFA World U-17 Championship in Finland next month. The skill and flair of the Brazilians needs no introduction, Portugal are always very strong at this level and the USA have consistently produced excellent youth teams over the past few years. The experience of playing against different football cultures will be of huge benefit to the England players."

Home advantage certainly played its part last year, and McDermott will be looking for similar backing from the Nottingham fans: "It gives us all a huge boost when the fans turn up in force and get behind the team. The final day last year was a real carnival atmosphere and let's hope we can get similar support at Meadow Lane. "I am sure that everyone, both players and fans alike, will enjoy six intriguing matches and will be treated to an exhibition from promising young football talents from around the world."

One person who will be following the tournament with interest is England coach Sven Goran Eriksson: "The development of our youth teams in vitally important to me as England coach. We have seen some very talented players coming through the age levels and the future looks very bright.

"I will be following the fortunes of John McDermott's Under-17s team at the Pepsi Tournament very closely and I wish them the best of luck."

After tonight's matches, the teams have three days rest before the action starts again, England will play the Portuguese on Thursday night after Brazil meet the USA.

The Tournament, which will be screened live on Sky Sports, finishes off next Sunday when the Brazilians are England's opponents.

Stay logged on to TheFA.com tonight and throughout the week for all the latest from Nottingham.