Brazil closed its FIFA window with a 4-0 victory over India at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, a result that reflected its territorial control but not an entirely effortless evening. Estêvão opened the scoring, Pedro added a second before halftime, and Samuel Lino struck twice after coming on in the second half.¹

From Brazil’s perspective, the match was an opportunity to test options while maintaining a winning run. Carlo Ancelotti made extensive changes, yet Brazil continued to dominate possession and chances. Pedro, making his first start under the Italian coach according to one assessment, combined a goal with an assist, while Samuel Lino brought pace and directness from the bench.² The result left Brazil with two wins and a draw from its three-match window, following games against Australia.¹

The scoreline, however, did not tell the entire story of the contest. India, ranked 138th in the FIFA standings in one report, struggled to contain Brazil for long periods, but did create several openings—particularly through Ryan Williams and Manvir Singh—that tested Brazil’s defensive cover.³ Brazil’s dominance was substantial, with 66% possession, 20 shots and 652 completed passes reported, but India’s counterattacks ensured the hosts were not entirely passive.³

The weather was a shared constraint rather than an excuse. Lino said the limited celebrations after the goals reflected Kolkata’s oppressive conditions: “Sometimes it is important to save your energy, because it is immense heat.”⁴ He added that maintaining a fast tempo throughout was difficult, although Brazil “dealt with it well and got the win.”⁴

Individual evaluations also highlighted a contrast within Brazil’s attack: Pedro and Lino earned the plaudits, while Vinícius Júnior was described as having another quiet outing despite his attempts to influence the game.² Brazil next faces Japan and Singapore in November; India is scheduled to play Uruguay on October 6.³