I.M. Vijayan and José Barreto to grace India's international friendlies as Goodwill Ambassadors
Both legends bring generations together
The upcoming international friendly will carry an added sense of occasion with two much-loved figures of Indian football, Inivalappil Mani Vijayan and José Barreto, set to grace the occasion as Goodwill Ambassadors and carry the official match ball onto the pitch ahead of kickoff.
The presence of the two former footballers will add a special dimension to the fixture, bringing together different generations of Indian football.
Their presence as Goodwill Ambassadors, along with the honour of carrying the match ball to the pitch, will reflect the values of unity, sportsmanship, camaraderie and respect that the game represents.
I.M. Vijayan and José Barreto to carry the match ball ahead of the Brazil game
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The occasion also comes at a particularly special time for Kolkata, where the arrival of two footballing giants, Brazil and Uruguay, has added a distinct vibrancy to the city.
With the festive season in Bengal just around the corner, the back-to-back international fixtures have turned the city into a grand celebration of football, bringing together fans, communities and generations in a shared sporting experience.
The presence of Brazil and Uruguay in Kolkata offers a huge opportunity to celebrate the city’s deep-rooted love for the beautiful game, while creating a memorable beginning to what is already a much-anticipated festive period. The energy surrounding the two fixtures reflects the unique place football holds in the cultural fabric of Bengal.
I.M. Vijayan, one of the most celebrated names in Indian football, and José Barreto the Brazilian legend, who holds a special place in the hearts of Indian football fans, have both left a lasting mark on the sport through their careers and their contribution to its growth in the country. Their presence lends even greater prestige to this FIFA international friendlies.
The match-ball presentation will provide the two footballing personalities an opportunity to represent the spirit of the game beyond the 90 minutes on the field. Their presence will underline the sense of togetherness and celebration that surrounds the fixture.
Style Bazar, Amul & Bharat Taxi, major brands united ahead of the games
With two iconic figures of Indian football adding their presence to the occasion and ushering the ceremonial ball onto the pitch, the encounter promises to be a celebration of the game both on and off the field, writing another special chapter in Kolkata’s welcome for Brazil and Uruguay alongside the vibrant festive atmosphere taking shape across Bengal.
This historic FIFA Men’s International friendly series, the Principal partner style bazar Powered by Amul. And we shall build upon our football association we had with the top two teams of the world- Spain and Argentina during the recent FIFA World Cup 2026.
Bharat Taxi will also leverage this huge fan craze as the official mobility partner. The two brands believe in the growth of football in India.
Who will carry the official match ball ahead of the Brazil game?
Indian football icons I.M. Vijayan and José Barreto will carry the official match ball onto the pitch ahead of kickoff.
What role will I.M. Vijayan and José Barreto have at the match?
The two former footballers will attend the occasion as Goodwill Ambassadors and take part in the ceremonial match-ball presentation.
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