Indranil Khan says Kolkata is buzzing for October internationals as India prepare to play Brazil and Uruguay

West Bengal’s Minister of State (IC) for Youth Services and Sports, Dr Indranil Khan, spoke at a press conference in the VIP Lounge of Salt Lake Stadium on Tuesday, September 29, about the city’s anticipation ahead of international fixtures at the venue in October, including India’s men’s matches against Brazil and Uruguay and the India women’s friendlies against Russia.

Two major men’s and women’s international fixtures are scheduled at Salt Lake Stadium in October, generating visible excitement across Kolkata and West Bengal; organisers and local officials say supporters from other parts of India are expected to travel to the city, and banners and hoardings have been erected around the state to create a football atmosphere.

“Football is in the blood of Bengalis. And the craze around football is visible right now across various corners of the city and all parts of West Bengal.” “Beyond West Bengal, we are seeing people coming in. I was looking at tweets from people coming from Chennai, Delhi, Bombay, and we can see them at the airport as well. They are coming to Kolkata for the 3rd, and the India vs Uruguay match on the 6th,” Dr Khan said.

AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey addressed arrangements for supporters attending the matches: Food and water from outside will not be permitted inside the stadium, while food stalls will be available within the venue for spectators.

Dr Khan also informed that the West Bengal Government will host a State Guest Dinner for the Brazil, Uruguay, Russian women’s team and India men’s and women’s teams during their visit.

“This historic FIFA Men’s International friendly series, the principal partner-style bazaar, is powered by Amul. And we shall build upon our football association we had with the top two teams in the world-Spain and Argentina during the recent FIFA World Cup 2026!! Bharat Taxi will also tap into this fan craze as the official mobility partner. The two brands believe in the growth of football in India.”

With the Salt Lake Stadium preparing to host international football once again, the state government and the All India Football Federation are working towards ensuring a memorable experience for players, supporters and visitors. India will face Brazil on October 3 at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.