Brazil have announced a star studded 26 player squad for the upcoming international friendly against India, with Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Endrick among the biggest names selected for the much anticipated match in Kolkata on October 3.
The squad was announced by Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti as the five time FIFA World Cup champions begin a new phase following the 2026 World Cup. The inclusion of several established stars alongside younger players indicates that Ancelotti is looking to combine experience with fresh talent as Brazil begins preparations for the next international cycle.
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior is one of the headline names in the squad. The attacker remains one of Brazil’s most recognised players and will be one of the main attractions for Indian football supporters when Brazil arrive in Kolkata.
Barcelona winger Raphinha has also been selected. Known for his pace, creativity and attacking ability, Raphinha is expected to add experience to Brazil’s forward line. His presence, along with Vinicius Junior, gives the Brazilian attack considerable international quality.
Young forward Endrick is another major name included in the squad. The highly rated Brazilian attacker has already attracted considerable attention because of his performances and potential. His inclusion adds to the growing interest surrounding Brazil’s next generation of attacking players.
The squad also includes experienced defenders such as Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhaes. Bruno Guimaraes is another prominent name in the midfield group. The combination of experienced international players and emerging talents reflects Ancelotti’s approach as he begins shaping the team for future competitions.
Brazil will first face Australia in two international friendlies before travelling to India. The team is scheduled to play Australia on September 25 and September 29 before meeting India in Kolkata on October 3. The India fixture will be played at the Salt Lake Stadium, also known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan.
The India versus Brazil match is attracting significant attention because it will bring one of international football’s most successful national teams to Indian soil. Brazil have won the FIFA World Cup five times, making them one of the most decorated teams in the history of the competition.
For Indian football supporters, the match represents a major opportunity to watch internationally recognised players in person. The arrival of Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Endrick is expected to increase interest in the fixture, while the presence of other established Brazilian internationals adds further importance to the game.
The match also comes at an important stage for both teams. For Brazil, the friendly is part of a rebuilding period under Ancelotti. The Italian coach is using the upcoming fixtures to assess players and develop a squad capable of competing in future international tournaments.
India, meanwhile, will have the opportunity to test themselves against one of the strongest football nations in the world. Facing Brazil can provide valuable international experience for Indian players and offer supporters a rare chance to see a top global football team compete in the country.
Brazil’s squad announcement has also generated interest because Neymar is not included in the current group. The decision is part of Ancelotti’s wider squad changes as he evaluates younger players and looks toward the future.
The October 3 fixture is therefore expected to be more than a high profile exhibition match. It will also provide Brazil with an opportunity to assess its emerging generation, while India will get the chance to compete against a team featuring some of the biggest names in world football.
With Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Endrick and several other prominent players expected to be part of Brazil’s touring group, the Kolkata friendly is set to become one of the most closely watched international football events in India this year.