A delegation of the Brazilian Football Confederation and others inspect the field at Salt lake Stadium, also known as Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan (PTI Photo/Swapan Mahapatra)

A five-member delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) spent more than two hours inspecting Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium on Thursday ahead of the much-anticipated India-Brazil football match on October 3.Led by Sergio Dimas de Oliveira, the group reviewed the training facilities, pitch, dressing rooms, toilets and other arrangements.

CBF satisfied with preparations

The delegation also checked the hospitality and hygiene facilities, with toilets and cleanliness among its main concerns. West Bengal Sports Minister Indranil Khan welcomed the officials by saying, “Welcome to the Mecca of Indian football.”After the inspection, Khan said the Brazilian officials were pleased with the arrangements.“We had a meeting with them today, and after having a look at the infrastructure and preparations we have made, they are really positive,” Khan told reporters, as quoted by news agency PTI.“We are all eagerly waiting for the India vs Brazil match, and all preparations needed for the match are being made at the moment and have already started.”The CBF has also sought an update on the pitch after 15 days, while another inspection could take place if required. Brazil may also request ice-bath facilities in the dressing rooms.

Security and landmark clash

Khan said the ongoing Durand Cup has shown that security and logistics at the stadium are working smoothly.“The Durand Cup is being played here, the oldest tournament in Asia, and all logistics are being managed well; we expect to have everything in place for the India vs Brazil match. We hope we can have more such marquee matches here,” he said.“Be rest assured, it will be a seamless experience both on the field of play and outside the field of play. We have made sufficient arrangements. It will be a very positive experience not only for the fans but the players as well. We’re fully confident. We will see many more world-class matches in future.”Brazil, currently ranked fifth in the FIFA standings, will provide India with its highest-ranked opposition since the rankings began in 1992. Brazil could travel with around 90 players, coaches and support staff. India may also host Cape Verde on October 6, although the fixture and venue are yet to be officially confirmed. Asked about the proposed game, Khan said, “Let’s see.”