India vs Brazil: India may have gone down 4-0 against Brazil in their historic friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium, but their display in the opening stages of the contest earned praise from one of football’s most decorated managers.
Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti highlighted India’s organisation, defensive discipline and willingness to attack on the counter after his side eventually secured a comfortable victory in Kolkata.
India frustrated the five-time FIFA World Cup winners for large periods of the opening half, keeping Brazil from finding clear openings before Estevao finally broke the deadlock in the 28th minute.
Pedro doubled the advantage before half-time, while Samuel Lino scored twice after the break to complete the 4-0 win.
Ancelotti Praises India’s Defensive Organisation
Despite the defeat, Ancelotti felt India followed their tactical plan well and made life difficult for Brazil during the early stages.
“They defended, they were organised, they tried to play counter-attack. I think they played a good game,” Ancelotti said during the post-match interaction.
The Italian manager admitted that Brazil initially struggled to find a way through India’s defensive structure. However, the opening goal changed the flow of the contest, allowing his side to play with greater control.
“We had difficulty to open the score but the moment we opened the score with Estevao, we had more opportunity to control better the game,” he said.
Brazil eventually finished the night with a four-goal margin, but Ancelotti also admitted that his own side’s defending was not flawless.
“We defended well. We could have defended better. It was a new defence that never played together, so it could be that not everything was perfect,” he added.
Brazil Use India Test To Assess Young Players
The Kolkata friendly was also part of Brazil’s effort to assess young players and new options within the squad. Ancelotti used the international window to provide opportunities to several youngsters as he continues to build depth within the national team.
“It was a test,” Ancelotti said. “Now it's a moment for us to give an opportunity to the young, to be part of the squad, to know - and for us to know - if they have the quality to be part of the national team in the future.”
The Brazil coach also acknowledged the support from the Kolkata crowd, which turned up in large numbers despite the humid conditions.
“We are happy to be here. We try to do our best,” he said. “We try to show to all the people that love Brazil and love football, to show our best quality. And I hope they enjoy the night.”