Vinicius in Kolkata; the responsibility of defeating India also rests on his shoulders.

Vinícius Júnior realized his popularity the moment he set foot in India. As he entered the hotel, fans in the lobby chanted, "Vini! Vini!" Yet, today, this Brazilian star will have to face Indian supporters on the pitch in Kolkata.
India and Brazil are set to face each other in a friendly match today at 8 PM (Bangladesh time) at Kolkata's Yuva Bharati Krirangan. This marks the first-ever international match between the two teams. While there is a possibility of multiple changes to Brazil's starting lineup, Vinícius is almost certain to take the field.

Vini returns to India after 10 years
Vinícius's connection with India is not new. He played a pivotal role in leading Brazil to victory in the inaugural BRICS U-17 Football Tournament held in Goa in 2016. The young Vinícius was the tournament's top scorer with four goals.
Returning to India after a decade brings back memories of that time. Speaking to CBF TV—the media arm of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF)—Vinícius mentioned that he never imagined as a child that he would return to India.
He noted that he was unaware at the time of the immense love the Indian people held for him. He also shared that even though he did not get the chance to play in the World Cup later on, Indian fans continued to send him messages regularly.

Added responsibility in Raphinha's absence
With Raphinha sidelined due to injury, the responsibility on Vinícius within Brazil's attack against India has increased. The Real Madrid star will play in his familiar position on the left flank.
Coach Carlo Ancelotti plans to field Flamengo striker Pedro in Raphinha's place. Just as he made significant changes in the two previous friendlies against Australia, there is a likelihood of multiple changes for the match against India as well.
After drawing the first match against Australia 1–1, Ancelotti made seven changes for the second game, guiding Brazil to a 4–2 victory. This time too, he plans to field almost every player from the team's 26-member squad. A different challenge awaits on the pitch amidst the fans' excitement.

Vinícius's popularity in India was evident the moment he arrived at his hotel; he received the same warm welcome he had experienced as a teenager in Goa a decade ago.
However, once he steps onto the field, that affection will give way to fierce competition. Vinícius must now demonstrate his prowess in the Brazil jersey before Indian football fans.
For Kolkata's Yuva Bharati Krirangan, this match is not only historic for India but also marks a special moment: the return to the country—ten years later—of the teenager who had scored four goals in Goa back in 2016.