Bangladesh has emerged as one of the countries in contention to host Brazil for an international friendly, although India has moved into pole position to welcome the five-time FIFA World Cup champions during the October FIFA international window, according to reports from Brazil.
ESPN Brasil reported that the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) is in advanced negotiations with Indian organizers and stakeholders over a proposed friendly in Kolkata, with discussions having begun during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The report added that, besides India, Bangladesh, Singapore and Qatar have also made firm approaches to host the Selecao as Brazil look to finalize a third friendly during the September-October international window.
Brazil are scheduled to play two confirmed friendlies in Australia, facing opponents in Townsville on September 25 and Brisbane on September 29. The CBF is now working to secure a third fixture, with India emerging as the leading candidate.
According to the report, Brazil's interest in playing in the Indian subcontinent has been driven by the overwhelming support the team received from Indian fans throughout the 2026 World Cup. The Selecao enjoyed widespread backing on social media during the tournament despite their campaign ending in disappointment.
Managed by Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil entered the World Cup as one of the favorites but were eliminated by Norway in the Round of 16, ending their bid for a record-extending sixth world title.
Should the Kolkata fixture be finalized, Indian fans would get the chance to watch some of Brazil's biggest stars, including Vinicius Jr, Bruno Guimarães, Matheus Cunha and Gabriel Magalhães.
A Brazil appearance in India would also revive memories of one of the country's most iconic football moments. In 1977, Brazilian legend Pelé visited Kolkata with New York Cosmos for a famous exhibition match against Mohun Bagan, attracting a packed crowd and cementing the city's reputation as one of South Asia's football capitals.
While Bangladesh remains among the countries hoping to bring the Selecao to their shores, the report suggests India is currently the frontrunner to host Brazil's final friendly of the October FIFA window. No official confirmation has yet been made by the CBF or the All India Football Federation.