Neymar, front, of Brazil celebrates after scoring from a penalty spot during the round of 16 match against Norway at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 5.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in late-stage talks with Indian sports organisers to schedule an international friendly in Kolkata, likely happening in early October 2026.
Initial reports from ESPN Brasil, later confirmed by outlets like Estadão, indicate that only the final contractual details are pending before an official announcement. The media outlet also confirmed with the CBF that Brazil plans to hold additional home friendlies in 2027, especially in cities typically overlooked in the national team’s schedule.
During the recent World Cup, Kolkata transformed into a lively display with murals of Neymar and Vini Junior adorning the city streets, particularly in north Kolkata. Although organisers in Bangladesh, Singapore, and Qatar also showed interest, negotiations have only advanced with India.
The CBF rejected proposals to include more matches in the region because of squad travel and recovery considerations. The proposed match occurs following Brazil’s elimination by Norway in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, under head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
