Five-time world champions Brazil have announced a 26-member squad for their upcoming international friendlies against Australia and India, with stars including Vinicius Jr, Raphinha, Marquinhos and Endrick included in the team. Brazil will face India for the first time on October 3 at 7:30 pm IST at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, giving Indian football fans an opportunity to watch some of the world’s leading players in action.
Brazil’s schedule begins with a match against Australia on September 25 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville. The two teams will meet again on September 29 at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane before Brazil travel to India for their historic encounter. The Brazilian Football Confederation said coach Carlo Ancelotti selected 26 players for the team’s first matches since the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The squad includes several prominent players from European clubs. Marquinhos has been selected in defence, while Gabriel Magalhaes, Vitor Reis and Jair are also among the defenders. The midfield features Bruno Guimarães, Douglas Luiz and Andrey Santos. In attack, Brazil have named Vinicius Jr, Raphinha, Endrick, Samuel Lino and Pedro among their options.
Also Read: Ganguly Wants Such High-Profile Fixtures to Continue For Indian Football's Growth
Brazil reached the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but were eliminated by Norway in their pre-quarterfinal match. The five-time champions have not won the World Cup since their 2002 triumph. Vinicius Jr, however, had a strong individual campaign at the tournament, scoring four goals and providing one assist despite Brazil’s early exit.
The Brazilian squad has generated significant excitement among Indian football supporters ahead of the historic Kolkata fixture. However, the match has also prompted debate over the state of Indian football, with some fans questioning whether high-profile friendlies against elite teams can address the national side’s continuing struggles. India have never qualified for the FIFA World Cup, while the domestic football structure has faced criticism over its progress and development.
Brazil’s squad for the friendlies features goalkeepers Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco and Otavio. The defenders are Arthur Dias, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jair, Marquinhos, Matheuzinho, Mauro Junior, Vitor Reis and Wesley. Midfielders include Andrey Santos, Breno Bidon, Bruno Guimarães, Danilo Santos, Douglas Luiz and Gabriel Bontempo, while the forwards are Endrick, Stephen, John Peter, Pedro, Raphinha, Rayan, Samuel Lino and Vinícius Júnior.
Also Read: Brydon Carse Claims Five Wickets Before Bizarre Dismissal Grabs Attention In County Cricket