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Sports India News Updated Jul 25, 2026

Brazil-Norway Rematch? CBF Eyes October Friendly in Kolkata

The Brazilian Football Confederation has announced a three-match friendly schedule for the first international break after the 2026 World Cup, with two matches against Australia set for late September. A third match is being negotiated to take place in Kolkata, India, in early October, though the opponent remains undecided. Talks with Indian organizers began during the 2026 World Cup, driven by strong Brazilian fan presence in the region. The matches are part of a new FIFA Super Date model that allows up to four games per national team over a 16-day window.

CBF negotiating a friendly match for Brazillian team in Kolkata in October

Brasil, July 25

The Brazilian Football Confederation has finalised the schedule for the first FIFA International Break post the FIFA World Cup 2026, with three friendlies played between September-end to start of October, including a match in Kolkata, India, which is currently in the negotiation stage.

As per ESPN, in addition to two matches against Australia scheduled on September 25 and 29 at Townsville and Brisbane, the CBF is also currently negotiating for the third match to be held in Kolkata, India, at the start of October. However, the opponent has not yet been determined.

The discussions between CBF and the organisers started during the FIFA World Cup, driven by a large number of Brazil fans in the region during the tournament. Bangladesh, Qatar and Singapore also showed interest in hosting the five-time FIFA WC champions, who crashed out in the round of 16 to Norway, but the negotiations so far have progressed only with India.

Only a few final details remain before a deal between the confederations is formalised, and a contract is signed.

The schedule is a part of the 'FIFA Super Date', a new international transfer window model lasting up to 16 days, allowing up to four matches per national team, including official/friendly matches. The calendar also includes dates reserved in March, June, a combined period between September and October and another one in November.

ESPN has also confirmed with CBF that a key goal for 2027 is to raise the number of friendlies in Brazil, taking the sport to the cities that are not usually a part of the national team's schedule.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Sneha F

This is wonderful for Indian football! Hosting Brazil in Kolkata will boost the sport's popularity here. But I hope the organisers focus on grassroots development too. We need more than just friendly matches—better academies and infrastructure. Anyway, can't wait to see the samba boys in action!

Aman W

Why is it always Kolkata? Why not Bangalore, Mumbai, or even Delhi? The Salt Lake Stadium is iconic but we need to spread football's reach across the country. Brazil coming to India is great, but this feels like a missed opportunity to grow the game in other regions. Just saying...

Nikhil C

Honestly, I'm just happy that India is being considered for such a high-profile friendly. Bangladesh and Singapore were also in the race, so this is a big win for us. Our national team has been improving slowly, and matches like these give them exposure to top-tier football. Fingers crossed the deal goes through! 🤞

Kavya N

I'm thrilled but also a bit skeptical. The CBF is clearly looking to expand their fanbase and maybe make some money. That's fine, but I hope the Indian football federation ensures this isn't just a one-off event. We need more international matches, not just friendlies. Also, ticket prices should be reasonable for the common fan.

Varun X

Brazil in Kolkata? Chalo kuch toh exciting ho raha hai! 🎉 The last time they played in India was ages ago. I'll be there with my flag and jersey. But seriously, I hope

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