Ancelotti Shows Respect for India Ahead of Historic Brazil Clash

India are set for a historic night in Kolkata as they prepare to face five-time world champions Brazil for the first time.

The gap between the two teams in the FIFA rankings is enormous. Brazil sit fifth in the world, while India are ranked 138th. Despite that difference in quality and experience, Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti insists his side will not underestimate their opponents.

India's recent result has given Brazil another reason to remain cautious. India held 44th-ranked Panama to a 1-1 draw in their previous match, a performance Ancelotti believes deserves respect.

“We respect the Indian team. They drew with Panama,” Ancelotti said ahead of the match.

The Italian coach is also aware of India's deep connection with cricket. While cricket remains a major part of the country's sporting culture, Ancelotti noted that this does not mean Indians lack passion for football.

“Cricket is part of their culture. Football is not the most important sport, but that doesn't mean they don't love football,” he said.

India coach Khalid Jamil, meanwhile, knows his team will face enormous pressure against one of the world's most decorated football nations. But he believes India can make the most of the opportunity if the players remain composed and perform at their best.

“There will be pressure in the match, but we have to handle it. We have to take responsibility. If we can give our best, anything is possible,” Jamil said.

With Brazil bringing their global reputation and India looking to make history, the clash in Salt Lake promises to be a landmark occasion for Indian football.