The visit will offer a rare opportunity for local fans to see one of football’s most celebrated teams in action. Brazil, ranked fifth in the world and boasting stars including Vinicius Junior, will face India in Kolkata on October 3 — their first senior men’s international in the country where football enjoys a passionate following despite cricket’s overwhelming popularity.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said the five-time world champions take their friendly against India next week very seriously, insisting there is “never a friendly game” for them, according to media reports Wednesday.
One of the most decorated managers in the game’s history, Ancelotti has won a record five Champions League titles as a coach. India, ranked 138th by FIFA, have never qualified for a World Cup but football remains hugely popular, especially in Kolkata and the southern city of Kochi. “We have to see other nations, other cultures.
the veteran Italian manager said Brazil would approach it with full seriousness Although the match is officially a friendly. We are used to playing friendlies with different styles,” said the coach who took charge last year.
