Brazil to play FIFA friendly football match in Kolkata

The five-time FIFA world football champions Brazil national football team may visit India.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in advanced discussions to bring them to India for an international friendly match in Kolkata, ESPN Brasil reported.

The proposal stems from the overwhelming wave of passion and support shown by Kolkata fans for the Seleção during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which caught the attention of Brazilian football officials.

The match is being planned for early October during the international window. Brazil’s opponent for the potential exhibition in Kolkata remains to be finalized.

The proposed friendly is likely to be scheduled during FIFA’s expanded international window.

Under the new “Super FIFA window” format, national teams can use a 16-day period to play up to four matches, combining competitive fixtures with international friendlies.

Brazil already has two confirmed friendlies in Australia – against the Socceroos on September 25 in Townsville and September 29 in Brisbane. The proposed Kolkata fixture would serve as the third leg of their tour.

Nations like Bangladesh, Singapore, and Qatar also expressed interest, but negotiations have progressed most significantly with Indian organizers.

For decades, Kolkata has been regarded as the heartland of Indian football, and this year’s World Cup once again showed why.

During the world tournament, large parts of the city transformed into a sea of yellow and green.

Murals of Neymar and Vinicius Junior appeared across north Kolkata, while giant cut-outs of football stars and colourful street art celebrated the World Cup in neighbourhoods known for their football culture.