Brazil to play friendly match in Kolkata in October

The Brazilian national football team is likely to tour the Indian subcontinent later this year. There is a strong possibility of a historic friendly match being held in Kolkata in early October.

According to a report by ESPN Brazil and later by Brazilian media outlet Estado, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has reached a significant level of agreement with Indian organizers to bring the five-time world champions to India. Now, only the final details of the contract are left to be resolved.

However, Brazil’s opponent in the proposed match has not yet been decided. As a result, there is no clear message on whether the Selecao will face the Indian national team or play against another opponent.

The discussion began with the World Cup frenzy.

The first talks between the CBF and Indian representatives began after pictures and videos of cheering fans from the Indian subcontinent went viral on social media during the FIFA World Cup. The incredible spectacle of thousands of fans clad in yellow-green jerseys caught the attention of Brazilian football authorities and paved the way for the team to be brought to India.

Along with Bangladesh, Kerala, India, and other regions, Kolkata was one of the main centers of this support. At that time, the streets of the city were decorated with Brazilian flags.

Part of a three-match tour

Brazil plans to play a total of three matches in the FIFA international window scheduled from September 21 to October 6. Two matches against Australia have already been confirmed—

• September 25: Townsville

• September 29: Brisbane (Suncorp Stadium)

The third match is scheduled to be held in Kolkata in the early days of October, immediately after the Australia tour.

Although there have been strong demands and discussions to host matches in Bangladesh, Singapore and Qatar, currently only an agreement has been finalized with India. The CBF has decided not to play a fourth match, considering the additional travel and rest of the footballers.

New history in the city of football, Kolkata

If this match is finalised in Kolkata, it will add a new dimension to the city’s traditional relationship with Brazilian football. Earlier, in 1977, football emperor Pele played for the New York Cosmos against Mohun Bagan at Eden Gardens. It will be a memorable moment for the city’s football fans when a Brazilian national team comes to Kolkata after many years.