Kolkata (West Bengal) [India], August 21 (ANI): Indian football legend IM Vijayan has expressed his excitement over the upcoming India-Brazil international friendly, which will see the Brazil national football team visit India. He believes the arrival of Brazilian stars such as Vinicius Junior and Raphinha is a major positive development for Indian football and will bring global attention to the country.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers India has produced, Vijayan welcomed Brazil's visit and said that hosting a team of Brazil's stature could help generate greater interest in football among people across the country, according to an AIFF Media release.
Speaking about the impact of the match on India's young footballers, Vijayan said, "The young players will play and gain experience, which is a very big thing. It will become a memory for them for the rest of their lives. My football career ended a long time ago. Whatever I played, I played wholeheartedly. Now our players should enjoy the game."
Vijayan also highlighted the economic significance of bringing a team like Brazil to India. According to him, hosting a world-class team involves considerable expenditure, but it also demonstrates that people in India are willing to invest in and spend money on football. He feels this is a positive sign for the continued growth and development of Indian football.
The former India striker also revealed his desire to be present at the historic encounter in Kolkata. He said that, if there are no other commitments or issues, he would certainly travel to Kolkata, sit in the stands and enjoy the India-Brazil match in person, as per the release.
The visit of a star-studded Brazil side is also expected to provide an invaluable learning opportunity for India's young footballers. Vijayan believes that sharing the pitch with some of the world's best players can boost their confidence, provide valuable experience and contribute significantly to their future development.
With the India-Brazil match already generating enormous excitement among football fans across the country, Vijayan's enthusiasm has added further anticipation to what promises to be a landmark occasion for Indian football. (ANI)
Brazil team's India visit will be a lifetime memory for young players: IM Vijayan
