New Delhi, 10 September (H.S.):

Five-time world champions Brazil have announced a formidable 26-member squad for their international friendly against India on October 3 at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan in Kolkata. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti has included star players such as Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, Endrick and Bruno Guimaraes, with three Ballon d’Or nominees also named in the squad.

Before travelling to India, Brazil will play two matches against Australia on September 25 and 29. The team will then travel to Kolkata for the October 3 encounter against India.

Ancelotti has selected a wealth of attacking options. In addition to Vinicius Junior, Raphinha and Endrick, the squad includes Estevao, Joao Pedro, Pedro, Rayan and Samuel Lino.

Bruno Guimaraes and Douglas Luiz are the prominent midfield names. They will be joined by Andrey Santos, Breno Bidon, Danilo Santos and Gabriel Bontempo.

The defensive unit features Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes and experienced Brazil international Marquinhos. Arthur Dias, Douglas Santos, Jair, Matheuzinho, Mauro Junior, Vitor Reis and Wesley have also been selected.

Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco and Otavio have been named as the three goalkeepers.

The fixture will provide Khalid Jamil’s India side with a major opportunity to test themselves against one of the most successful teams in international football. It will also mark the first-ever international match played by Brazil’s senior men’s team on Indian soil.

Brazil squad:

Goalkeepers: Hugo Souza, Pedro Morisco, Otavio

Defenders: Arthur Dias, Douglas Santos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jair, Marquinhos, Matheuzinho, Mauro Junior, Vitor Reis, Wesley

Midfielders: Andrey Santos, Breno Bidon, Bruno Guimaraes, Danilo Santos, Douglas Luiz, Gabriel Bontempo

Forwards: Endrick, Estevao, Joao Pedro, Pedro, Raphinha, Rayan, Samuel Lino, Vinicius Junior

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar