Kolkata, October 2, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti shared a warm moment with his Indian counterpart Khalid Jamil on Friday, embracing him and wishing him good luck ahead of the historic international friendly between India and Brazil at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday.
The moment unfolded as Brazil’s pre-match press conference was drawing to a close. Jamil entered the room while Ancelotti was answering his final questions. The Italian coach then got up, met Jamil on the podium and exchanged a few words with him before the two shared a warm embrace.
Ancelotti wished Jamil good luck before Brazil left the stage and the Indian team took over for its pre-match media interaction.
The exchange brought together two coaches with vastly different footballing backgrounds. Ancelotti is among the most decorated managers in football, having won multiple UEFA Champions League and league titles during a career spanning three decades.
Jamil, meanwhile, has worked his way through Indian football and famously guided Aizawl FC to the I-League title. He is now the first Indian in more than a decade to take charge of the Indian men’s national team.
Speaking about Brazil’s visit to India, Ancelotti acknowledged the country’s deep affection for the five-time world champions.
“It is an honour for us to be here with the national team. We know how much this region loves the national team and football. We are happy to be here to play against India and show the quality of our players,” Ancelotti said.
Brazil defender Marquinhos also described the reception in India as “a golden opportunity” and “a very big motivation”.
Jamil, however, acknowledged the challenge awaiting India against the highly decorated Brazilian side, stressing that the hosts would need to put their emotions aside when the teams take the field.
“They are the best team. They are known as the best of the best,” Jamil said of Brazil.
India defender Anwar Ali underlined the importance of remaining composed against a team renowned for its technical quality and attacking football.
“Because everyone knows how Brazil play. So, we just have to keep calm in the field. And deal with the pressure,” he said.
Brazil, ranked fifth in the FIFA world rankings, will take on India, currently placed 138th, in the much-anticipated international friendly at Salt Lake Stadium.
The match marks a landmark occasion for Indian football, as the senior men’s national team prepares to face Brazil for the first time.
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