Brazil football team reaches Kolkata for friendly match against India

Five-time football world champions Brazil reached Kolkata on Thursday night for their upcoming friendly match against India on Saturday. Police moved the team in a bus under heavy security directly to their hotel, keeping supporters away from the airport and travel route. Players and staff received a warm hotel welcome, with striker Vinicius Jr and manager Carlo Ancelotti drawing the loudest cheers from fans. A video from the Indian Football social media handle showed players Marquinhos, Endrick, and Gabriel entering alongside Vinicius and Ancelotti.

Schedule

Manager Ancelotti and one player will join a pre-match press conference at the team hotel on Friday morning, followed by a practice session at Salt Lake Stadium at 4 pm. According to the Press Trust of India, the visiting squad brought their own chef, hygiene manager, meat, cheese, and drinking water, while the hotel arranged special food preparation and storage facilities.

Team Changes

Brazil traveled without Barcelona winger Raphinha, who left the squad on Wednesday after a scan revealed a small muscle oedema in his right thigh. The Brazilian Football Confederation stated that the player departed as a precaution after being substituted at halftime during a 4-2 win against Australia on Tuesday. Saturday's match follows India's September 25 game against Panama in Bengaluru and precedes an October 6 fixture against Uruguay.

Context

International football friendlies against elite global teams provide crucial exposure and competitive experience for the Indian national squad. Major touring football delegations frequently maintain strict dietary and security protocols to ensure player health and peak performance during overseas tours.