India vs Brazil friendly 2026
Brazil's Vinicius Junior (left) celebrates with Bruno Guimaraes after scoring against Morocco in New Jersey during a group-stage match of the World Cup on June 13.
Brazil may not have won a World Cup crown since 2002, but their popularity has never been on the wane.
In India, like any other place in the world, they have a huge fan following even though there has not been much demand for tickets for Saturday’s international friendly between Carlo Ancelotti’s men and the hosts at the Salt Lake Stadium.
Brazil and Arsenal midfielder Bruno Guimaraes thinks it’s a blessing that Brazilian footballers are loved and adored across the world.
“We think we are so blessed that you have those fans. I think we are the biggest national team in the world. It means a lot to us, the support we have seen in the World Cup, a lot of culture and support in Brazil. So it means a lot for us. We are very excited that to go to India and play there,” Guimaraes, who, along with the rest of the jumbo Brazilian contingent, arrived in the city on Friday night, said.
Guimaraes said he is looking forward to feeling the ambience at Salt Lake Stadium. “I am excited. I’ve never been to India before. But I know how much the Indians love the game. I think they’re going to make an incredible atmosphere and we hope to play one unbelievable game and give them great memories.”
The fans, however, will miss an opportunity to watch Raphinha who returned to his club FC Barcelona after picking up a groin injury during Brazil’s 4-2 win over Australia on Tuesday.
Fifa International friendly between India and Brazil on Saturday from 7:30pm, Live on Sony Sports Ten 2 SD & HD, Sony Aath SD & HD (Bengali) & Sony LIV.