India lost 0-4 to five-time world champions Brazil in an international friendly at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on Saturday. Chelsea’s Estevao opened the scoring for Carlo Ancelotti’s side in the 28th minute, and Pedro doubled Brazil’s lead shortly before half-time. Samuel Lino then added two more goals after the break to complete a comfortable win for the visitors.
Brazil take control after lively India start
India made a lively start to the contest, but Brazil gradually took control. Estevao broke the deadlock in the 28th minute by finding the back of the net to put Ancelotti’s side ahead. Pedro then made it 2-0 before half-time, leaving India with a mountain to climb in the second half.
Lino makes instant impact off the bench
Lino, who came on for Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior before the second half, made an immediate impact. The substitute scored just before the hour mark to make it 3-0 and put the result beyond doubt. India kept fighting but struggled to create enough chances against Brazil’s well-organised defence.
Lino seals win with last kick of the match
Brazil stayed in control in the closing stages as India searched for a consolation goal. The Blue Tigers could not break through, with Brazil maintaining their threat at both ends until the final whistle. Lino had the last word, scoring with the final kick of the match to complete his brace and seal the 4-0 victory.
India’s next match: Uruguay on October 6
The defeat comes a week after India held Panama to a 1-1 draw in Bengaluru. The Blue Tigers will now turn their attention to the last fixture of the FIFA International Window, with Uruguay awaiting them in Kolkata on October 6. India will look to finish the window strongly after being thoroughly tested by the five-time world champions.
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