Brazil set to play in India? CBF in advanced talks for friendly match in Kolkata

New Delhi: The Brazil national football team is likely to return to India for the first time in years to play an international friendly match in the October FIFA window. Kolkata has emerged as the likely city to host the match.

The Selecao will play two matches against Australia on September 25 in Townsville and September 29 in Brisbane. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in advanced talks to schedule a third friendly match in India in early October, reports ESPN Brazil. The opposition for the proposed game is yet to be finalised.

The report further added that Kolkata has already been identified as the host city for the match, with talks between the federation and local organisers starting during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Why Brazil want to play in India?

The discussions started after the Brazilian officials were impressed by the overwhelming support from Indian fans throughout the World Cup. Images and videos of thousands of supporters wearing yellow Brazil jerseys, particularly from Kolkata, gained a lot of attention on social media during the tournament, which reportedly encouraged the CBF to explore the possibility of bringing the team to India.

Only a few details remain to be finalised before the agreement is formalised and contracts are signed, according to the report. The proposed fixture is expected to be part of FIFA’s expanded international window, which allows national teams a 16-day period to play up to four matches, including both competitive games and friendlies.

The report also stated that the CBF is planning to host more home friendlies in 2027, with the aim of taking the Brazilian national team to cities that have seldom staged international matches in recent years. Brazil were knocked out of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after suffering a 1-2 defeat against Norway in the Round of 16 on July 6.