Brazil captain Marquinhos has praised the Indian football team ahead of their much-anticipated international friendly in Kolkata, insisting that the five-time world champions have studied India carefully and will not take the challenge lightly.

India and Brazil are set to meet in a high-profile clash at the Salt Lake Stadium on Saturday. Ahead of the encounter, Marquinhos acknowledged India’s recent international schedule and spoke highly of the India goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

“India have played around six matches this year. Every match, even without a victory, has its own history and important moments. Brazil has been analysing the Indian team very well, of course, to get the best result in the game,” Marquinhos said.

The Paris Saint-Germain defender also singled out India goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, who is set to make his 90th international appearance for the national team. Marquinhos described the milestone as an impressive achievement.

“This is the 90th game for their goalie Gurpreet, which is extremely impressive,” the PSG defender added.

Gurpreet is one of the most experienced players in the Indian squad and has been a key figure for the national team for several years. His milestone adds another significant storyline to an already historic fixture.

Marquinhos also suggested that the Indian players do not require special advice ahead of a match against Brazil, praising their professionalism and preparation.

“I don’t really think I need to give the Indian squad any advice. They are extremely professional,” he said.

The Brazilian captain further spoke about the shared aspirations surrounding the fixture, suggesting that both teams approach football with a similar long-term ambition.

“This is a shared lifelong dream for the Indian and Brazilian teams. Eventually, both have the same thinking,” Marquinhos added.

The encounter promises to be a landmark occasion for Indian football, with the Blue Tigers facing one of the most decorated teams in international football.