SCOTLAND'S women footballers fly out to Brazil today for a four-game tournament involving the hosts, Canada and Chile.

"The aim of the trip is to play against higher ranked teams from other continents," said Scotland manager Anna Signeul. "It's a fantastic opportunity for us to prepare for our World Cup qualifiers next year."

The Scots will be without central defenders Rachel Corsie and Jenny Beattie for their opening match against Canada on Thursday. Beattie has not been released by her club, Montpellier, but Corsie will fly out on Thursday and is expected to play in the final three games.

Glasgow City, meanwhile, have signed American defender Ella Stephan. The 24-year-old has played for the USA at under-17, under-20 and under-23 levels.