CBF delegation flags concerns over the pitch and training facilities at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium ahead of the India-Brazil friendly
Brazilian officials stress the need for denser grass, citing injury risks for Vinicius Jr and his teammates
India’s decision to prioritise the Brazil friendly over the ASEAN tournament has drawn criticism
The condition of the playing surface at Kolkata’s Vivekananda Yuva Bharati Krirangan has come under scrutiny ahead of the India-Brazil friendly on October 3, with a seven-member delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) reportedly expressing concerns during its inspection of the venue on Thursday.
The delegation also assessed the training facilities inside the stadium complex, along with the dressing rooms and hygiene arrangements. While the playing surface and training infrastructure reportedly drew concern, the officials were said to be satisfied with the planned hotel accommodation.
“The CBF representatives spoke to the grounds staff and explained that the density of the grass needs to be increased or else there is a massive chance of injury for Vinicius Jr and his teammates,” sources told The Telegraph.
The Brazilian officials were reportedly told that the condition of the pitch had deteriorated after several Durand Cup matches were played at the stadium recently.
The concerns come as preparations continue for the high-profile friendly between India and five-time World Cup champions Brazil. The match is scheduled to take place in Kolkata on October 3, with considerable attention expected around the fixture.
Meanwhile, India’s decision to prioritise the Brazil friendly over participation in a scheduled ASEAN tournament has faced criticism.
India had initially accepted FIFA’s invitation to compete in the newly introduced tournament and were subsequently placed in Division 1 Group A alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.
The decision to opt for the marquee Brazil fixture instead has since sparked debate over the national team’s scheduling and competitive priorities.
The CBF delegation’s visit is part of the preparations for Brazil’s proposed trip to Kolkata, with the condition of the venue likely to remain a key issue ahead of the October 3 encounter.
