Brazil close to finalising international friendly in Kolkata, India - Report
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Brazilian legends like Roberto Carlos and Elano Blumer have played in the Indian Super League.
The most successful side in the history of the FIFA World Cup, Brazil, got eliminated in the Round of 16 of the 2026 edition after a brace from Norway’s Erling Haaland. After winning the World Cup back in 2002, the South American giants have failed to make it to the World Cup finals even once in the last two decades.
Ahead of the new cycle, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is looking forward to increasing the number of friendly fixtures for their national team. They are also considering taking friendly matches to newer venues.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side are expected to play two friendly games in Australia during the FIFA Super Date, a new concept proposed to extend the international window by a few days.
As reported by ESPN, they will play two international friendly fixtures in Australia on 25th September and 29th September in Townsville and Brisbane, respectively.
The Brazilian Football Confederation is also keen to explore the possibility of playing the third friendly fixture in India. In the October international break, they most likely could play at the iconic Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata, also referred to as the Salt Lake Stadium or the Mecca of Indian Football.
Who will be Brazil’s opponent in the friendly fixture in India?
No wonder an India vs Brazil friendly fixture would be one for the ages. But given the stark contrast in the FIFA ranking of both teams, it is highly unlikely that the Blue Tigers would face the five-time World Cup winners.
There is a high probability of an Asian team playing against the Seleção in India. Asian powerhouse Japan recently played Seleção in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 fixture. They gave them stiff competition.
Revenge would be on the minds of the Samurai Blue. It would be a mouth-watering clash to watch out for.
Other potential opponents include Asian teams like South Korea or even emerging powerhouses like Jordan and Uzbekistan. Brazil enjoy a massive footballing fanbase in India. The South American giants are keen to explore the untapped potential in this region and expand their reach.
Legend Pele played in Kolkata twice
One of the most decorated football players of all time, Pele, notably visited India twice. Seven years after winning the FIFA World Cup 1970, the three-time world champion made a visit to India with the New York Cosmos. He played in a historic exhibition match against Indian powerhouse Mohun Bagan that ended in a 2-2 draw.
Apart from that, several other Brazilian legends like Ronaldinho and Cafu also visited India. They featured in all-star games.
FIFA World Cup 2002 winner Roberto Carlos played for Delhi Dynamos in the ISL. Interestingly, 2007 Copa America winner with Brazil, Elano Blumer, won the ISL Golden Boot in the inaugural season. Other Brazilian legends like Lucio and Zico also plied their trade with FC Goa.
Where will the Brazil friendly fixture happen in India?
The match will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
When will Brazil play the friendly fixture happen in India?
Brazil will play the friendly fixture in the first week of October.
Has Pele visited India?
Yes, Pele visited India twice.
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In addition to writing articles on World and Indian Football, Saikat has also covered tournaments like the Durand Cup, Indian Super League, and Hockey India League. Notably, his exceptional communication skills have seen him interview legendary icons like Olympic 2024 gold medalist Yibbi Jansen, former Real Madrid player Javi Hernandez, and many more such sporting stalwarts.