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The vibrant colors of yellow and green have landed in Kolkata as Brazil arrives in the city. With Carlo Ancelotti in attendance, Salt Lake Stadium is gearing up for one of India\u2019s most anticipated football events by Saturday evening.<\/p>\n
Among the excited faces will be Vikash Dhorasoo, a former France international who played in the 2006 World Cup. However, as Kolkata buzzes with the excitement of seeing players like Vinicius Junior and Endrick, Dhorasoo wants everyone to think beyond just this one match. He believes that the clash between India and Brazil should inspire Indian football to aim higher and dream bigger.<\/p>\n
Dhorasoo, who has Indian heritage, argues that India needs to broaden its talent pool by giving more players opportunities to play abroad and, crucially, to commit to a long-term development plan. \u201cEvery match plays a role, helping you progress,\u201d he stated. \u201cWhile it\u2019s amazing to play against the top team in the world, we must not overlook the importance of local football.\u201d<\/p>\n
### A BRIGHT NEW FACE<\/p>\n
An encouraging example from India\u2019s current squad is Ryan Williams, who was born in Australia but chose to represent India on the international stage. After making an impressive start to his career with India, scoring on his debut and again in a recent match against Panama, Williams is emerging as a key player just as the team prepares to face Brazil. FIFA has already approved his switch, allowing him to bring his talents to India.<\/p>\n
While it\u2019s just two goals so far, Williams\u2019 performance has sparked hope in a team that is still seeking a reliable scorer following Sunil Chhetri\u2019s retirement. His journey underscores Dhorasoo\u2019s belief that India should pay more attention to players from the Indian diaspora.<\/p>\n
\u201cI could have played for India if such options existed back then,\u201d Dhorasoo reflected. He also pointed out other players like DR Congo international Samuel Moutoussamy, who could potentially join the Indian football conversation. However, having Indian ancestry alone doesn\u2019t automatically make someone eligible to play for India, as they must also satisfy FIFA\u2019s eligibility rules and citizenship criteria.<\/p>\n
For Dhorasoo, the first step is establishing a pathway that encourages these players to consider joining forces with India. \u201cWe need to create opportunities to engage them and present a compelling vision for the future of Indian football,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
### BEYOND JUST A MATCH<\/p>\n
With Brazil now in Kolkata, the context of this matchup gains significance. India currently holds the 138th spot in FIFA\u2019s rankings, a stark contrast to Brazil\u2019s position among the world\u2019s best teams. This match isn\u2019t just about winning or losing; it\u2019s more about challenging India\u2019s players against a level of competition that is uncommon for them.<\/p>\n
India\u2019s run of friendly matches started with a 1-1 draw against Panama, where Williams made an impact. Following Brazil, they will face Uruguay\u2014all important encounters that can provide invaluable experience. Dhorasoo emphasizes the need for players to fully embrace these moments. \u201cThey must enjoy it and strive to perform their best,\u201d he said, highlighting that the true value lies in the experiences gained.<\/p>\n
However, for that experience to lead to growth, Dhorasoo argues that Indian players require more international exposure. He pointed to Japan\u2019s successful strategy of sending players abroad over the past thirty years, resulting in a strong presence in European leagues. \u201cNow, many Japanese players are thriving in leagues such as the Bundesliga, Premier League, and La Liga,\u201d he noted, emphasizing how this has significantly advanced Japanese football.<\/p>\n
### A LONG-TERM VISION<\/p>\n
Dhorasoo\u2019s ambitions stretch far beyond this weekend\u2019s match. He envisions India establishing a clear identity for its football and committing to a comprehensive youth development, coaching, and grassroots approach. \u201cIndia must first determine the direction it wishes to take in football,\u201d he explained, adding that these principles should start at the youth level and extend to coaching strategies.<\/p>\n
Dhorasoo believes that meaningful change won\u2019t happen overnight. He anticipates a long-term project that could span ten to fifteen years. \u201cWe need to start with our youth players,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Thus, Saturday\u2019s game becomes more than just a friendly; it\u2019s a crucial stepping stone. As Dhorasoo prepares to watch India face off against Brazil on October 3, the most critical question may not be the match\u2019s outcome but what lessons India will take away from this experience.
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