October 3 shall witness a historic clash between India and in Kolkata. The five-time winners shall be playing their first game against the Indians.
But it seems that the most successful football side in the biggest tournament may not practice for the game on Indian soil. The Brazilians might be practicing in instead. Dhaka is an option.
Brazil Delegation Goes to Bangladesh
The Bangladesh Football Federation confirmed that such a possibility was discussed during a recent visit by a Brazilian delegation. But no decision has been made. The delegation came on August 23 and inspected the National Stadium, Bashundhara Kings Arena and several hotels. In an interview to The Daily Star, BFF president Tabith Awal said that a possible training session as well as a friendly vs Bangladesh was also talked about.
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“The answers are yes. We discussed all options,” Awal said when asked if Brazil could train in Dhaka or play Bangladesh before or after their match vs India.
“The delegation found the pitches and adjacent areas at both the National Stadium and Bashundhara Kings Arena to be of an acceptable standard for the Brazilian national team, although some improvements are required to additional infrastructure, including dressing rooms, technical staff areas and security at entry and exit gates,” he added.
© X/FIFA World Cup
Is All Not Well?
Brazil’s Dhaka inspection is in the wake of concerns reportedly being raised over the playing surface at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata where they face India on October 3. The CBF delegation reportedly flagged thin grass coverage along with a surface that was not even. There are also concerns about the pitch and how it could risk injuring the Brazilian players. With big stars like Vinicius Jr. possibly playing, there need to be improvements.
A Historic Clash
The game is less than six weeks away and it remains to be seen where Brazil prepare for the match. Fans in Kolkata are waiting in anticipation as India and Brazil face off for the first time ever. Shall the five-time World Cup champs humble India on home turf or shall the hosts pull a rabbit out of the hat, or will the honours be shared? We will know all in due time.