The India-Brazil international friendly has already begun to shape up as a meeting of football cultures, with Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti acknowledging India’s deep affection for the sport while revealing that the Seleção have closely studied the Blue Tigers, including their recent 1-1 draw against Panama, ahead of Saturday’s much-anticipated encounter at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
Ancelotti began his interaction with the media in Kolkata with a warm “Namaste”, before expressing his appreciation for the reception Brazil have received in India. “It was an honour for us to be here with the national team. We know how this region loves the national team, loves football, and we are happy to be here to play against India and to show the quality that our players have,” he said.
Ancelotti also revealed that Brazil have done their homework on the Blue Tigers ahead of the encounter, with the experienced coach pointing to India’s recent 1-1 draw against Panama as part of their preparation. “We saw the last game that they played against Panama, when they drew. It’s a good team, well organised, they are fast in front, they have a good striker, (Ryan) Williams, that could be dangerous for us,” Ancelotti said, underlining the attention Brazil have paid to India’s strengths and attacking threat.
Ancelotti added that Brazil were looking at India’s “quality and characteristics” as they prepare for the game, highlighting the respect with which the hosts are being approached.
Marquinhos, meanwhile, underlined the competitive approach Brazil will bring to Kolkata, stressing that the team’s focus remains firmly on performing at their best. “The most important way to really connect with the fan is to have a good performance inside the pitch, to play great games, achieve great victories, great performances,” the Brazil captain said. He added that the affection shown by Indian supporters gives the squad “energy, connection and motivation” as they look to keep improving and competing for major honours.
As Brazil prepare for another important step in their new cycle and India get ready to test themselves against one of international football’s most celebrated teams, Saturday’s encounter promises to be a meeting where preparation, respect and the passion of Kolkata converge on one pitch.
