When India, ranked 138th, face sixth-ranked Brazil in Kolkata on October 3, they will meet the highest-ranked opposition they have faced since the FIFA rankings began in 1992. Three days later, Uruguay (ranked 20th) arrive at the same ground.
India's decision to pull out of the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup to prioritise the Brazil friendly has drawn criticism, including from India legend Bhaichung Bhutia. The former captain said the tournament would have offered more meaningful competitive exposure than a high-profile friendly. He called the reported ₹50-70 crore outlay on the Brazil match hard to justify while clubs struggle financially, and called for a focus on long-term development.
When THE WEEK asked Dhorasoo about the difference, from a player’s perspective, between friendlies against high-level opposition and tournaments featuring relatively lower-level teams, he said his core belief is that every match helps.
“Each game has its own importance and helps you to progress,” he said. “Of course, it’s a great help to play the best teams in the world. But local football must be as important as the special game you might have.”
The AIFF has framed the match as a rare opportunity for its players to test themselves against one of football’s greatest nations. It could well be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for fans and players, and almost certainly the toughest test of their careers.
Dhorasoo, who was managed by Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti at AC Milan, also highlighted another aspect. Such high-profile exposure could help attract more players of Indian origin to the national team. Australian-born Ryan Williams is expected to lead India’s attack against Brazil, and more players like him would raise the team’s quality.
Dhorasoo cited former French striker David Trezeguet, whom he played with and who could have played for Argentina; Gonzalo Higuaín, who could have played for France but chose Argentina; and France’s Michael Olise, who could have played for England. He also spoke at length about Ayyoub Bouaddi's choice to represent Morocco over France, arguing that the player’s choice must be respected. “It is always a good thing to push for that kind of integration,” said Dhorasoo.
If Williams puts in a strong performance against Brazil or even Uruguay, Dhorasoo’s call for greater integration of eligible players may gain more support from stakeholders in Indian football. After the impressive recent draw against Panama, India are up for the Brazil challenge. The October 3 match will be remembered. Based on what Dhorasoo said, what India does in the months and years to come will decide whether it becomes a new beginning.
