The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has confirmed plans for the Seleção to return to Kolkata in October 2026 for an international friendly. The city was chosen after local fans turned out in force during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, according to ESPN Brasil.

What’s being arranged

The CBF is in advanced talks to schedule a third friendly in India in October, on top of the two already set against Australia on September 25 in Townsville and September 29 in Brisbane. The opponent for the Kolkata fixture has not been finalised, but discussions between CBF and local organisers began during the World Cup in the US.

The report states the proposal was driven by the overwhelming support Brazil received from Kolkata’s fans. Thousands of supporters wore the Seleção’s iconic yellow shirts throughout the tournament, with neighbourhoods across the city celebrating Brazil’s campaign despite India not competing. Only final details remain before contracts are signed.

Why Kolkata won the bid

Kolkata has long been regarded as the heartland of Indian football, and its passion shone brighter than ever during the 2026 World Cup. Large parts of the city turned into a sea of yellow and green, with murals of Neymar and Vinicius Junior appearing across north Kolkata. The famous "FIFA Gully" in Beniatola became a landmark after residents decorated an entire lane with portraits of football’s biggest stars, flags, and World Cup-themed artwork.

Sourav Ghosal, a local resident, told Reuters during the World Cup: "Kolkata is the mecca of football." The city’s football heritage runs deep through iconic clubs Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting.

How the friendly fits Brazil’s schedule

The Kolkata friendly is expected to fall within FIFA’s expanded international calendar, which allows national teams up to 16 days to play as many as four matches, including friendlies and competitive fixtures. The CBF also plans more home friendlies in 2026, taking the Seleção to Brazilian cities that rarely host international matches in recent years.

Brazil’s last result was a 1-2 loss to Norway on July 5, 2026. Since then, the team has strung together five straight wins before facing Australia.

What’s next for the Seleção

Beyond the Kolkata friendly, the CBF has two away games scheduled against Australia in September. The first is on September 25 in Townsville, followed by another on September 29 in Brisbane. The national team’s calendar remains packed through the end of the year as it gears up for the next international window.