Brazil Coach Carlo Ancelotti Says Football Is Part Of The "Culture Of The Country"

Xtra Time Newsdesk: Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti said it was an honor to be playing against the Indian National team in the pre-match press conference on Friday. He greeted the reporters with a "Namaste" and said that he knows the "region" (Kolkata) loves football.

Ancelotti said, "We are happy to be here to play against India and to show the quality that our players have. And we hope it will be an entertaining night for all the people that are going to the game". The former AC Milan manager also clarified his comments regarding India's "football culture".

"I think it's part of the culture of this country. Football is not the most important game, but that doesn't mean that football isn't loved. It is a sport, as there is a sport, a fantastic sport, cricket, where they are used to playing. So we are, as I said, happy to be here to show our quality, and for all the people that have the possibility to watch the game, it could be a fantastic night," said Ancelotti.

The coach also revealed that he watched India's friendly against Panama and praised striker Ryan Williams. "It's a good team, well organized, they are fast in front, they have a good striker, Williams, that could be dangerous for us," said Ancelotti.

"And we are looking, of course, we have respect for the team, we are looking for their quality and their characteristics to try to prepare well for the game. Of course, for us it's not—for the national team of Brazil, it will never be a friendly game. It will be an important game to improve, just because we are at the start of the new cycle of players, and to have respect for the opponent team that, in this case, is India."

With Raphinha out, Ancelotti will look to other options for his attack. Endrick and Pedro might be the likely ones replacing the Barcelona talisman. India will face Brazil tomorrow on the 3rd of October at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.