Brazilian Football Team Arrives in Kolkata for Friendly Match Against India
The Brazilian national football team, known for their five World Cup titles, touched down in Kolkata on Wednesday evening. The arrival was marked by enhanced security measures, ensuring fans were kept at a distance from the airport and the roads leading to their hotel as they prepare for a highly-anticipated friendly match against India on Saturday.
The team arrived around 8:45 PM and exited the airport using a special VIP exit in two buses adorned in Brazil’s iconic yellow and green colors. Police escort vehicles led the way to the team’s hotel located on the EM Bypass near Science City, while several cars carried other officials traveling with the team.
With security at its peak, fans were unable to gather near the airport or along the route, resulting in just a few lucky individuals catching a glimpse of the Brazilian stars. The entourage, consisting of about 90 individuals, had a strictly timed exit from the airport, leaving in just 11 minutes, with the convoy reaching the hotel in eight minutes.
Securing the team hotel was also a priority, with access limited to those directly associated with the Brazilian group.
Excitement in the Air
Inside the hotel, the atmosphere buzzed with energy as players arrived. Vinicius Junior, a forward from Real Madrid, stole the spotlight, receiving the loudest cheers from fans, with chants of “Vini, Vini” resonating through the lobby. The Brazilian players made their entrance dressed casually in olive-green hoodies, shorts, and the traditional yellow caps.
Unfortunately, the team did not include Barcelona’s Raphinha, who had a minor injury during their recent match against Australia and returned to Spain for medical attention.
On Friday morning, head coach Carlo Ancelotti, along with one of the players, is expected to participate in a press conference at the hotel. Later that day, Brazil will hold a training session at the Salt Lake Stadium at 4 PM to finalize their preparations for the game against India.
Food Arrangements Fit for Stars
The Brazilian squad has made specific arrangements regarding their meals during their stay. They brought their own chef and hygiene manager to ensure strict food standards are maintained. The team will enjoy a variety of imported meats, including turkey and lamb, along with fresh water supplied from Brazil. A hotel official mentioned that they will use only Bhetki fish for the players, indicating careful consideration in the menu.
These meticulous preparations highlight the extensive planning required to host such a prestigious team, with staff overseeing everything from nutrition to training schedules.
India’s Challenge Against World Champions
The upcoming match is part of India’s efforts to play against World Cup-winning teams, following their match against Panama on September 25 in Bengaluru. Following the Brazil game, India will face Uruguay, another two-time world champion, on October 6, and will embark on an overseas trip to New Zealand for two additional friendlies in November.
For Brazil, this friendly marks the conclusion of their international break, coming off a victorious match against Australia with a score of 4-2.
Stadium Upgrades Ahead of Match
Salt Lake Stadium, also known as Yuva Bharati Krirangan, has received renovations in preparation for the matches. The venue has been painted and its playing surface revamped with the help of Brazilian turf expert Ivan Nascimento. Having previously hosted matches during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, the stadium is set to welcome Brazil and Uruguay as they compete against India.
With the Brazilian team now settled in Kolkata, all eyes will be on the upcoming press conference and training session before the exciting match on Saturday.
