The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has put in place a special ticketing plan aimed at ensuring supporters of Kolkata’s three major football clubs get access to tickets for the Indian senior men’s team’s upcoming high-profile FIFA Tier 1 international friendlies.

India are scheduled to take on Panama on September 25, Brazil on October 3 and Uruguay on October 6, with all three opponents currently significantly higher than the Blue Tigers.

AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey outlined the arrangements at a press conference on Thursday, while also providing an update on preparations for the much-anticipated India-Brazil fixture in Kolkata.

A key part of the ticketing plan involves Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting. The Indian Football Association (IFA) will serve as the coordinating body for clubs seeking tickets, with supporters expected to be able to collect them directly from their respective club premises.

“If any club needs tickets, they can inform through the IFA regarding how many tickets are required. Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, and Mohammedan Sporting will allocate a dedicated area in their stadium premises where ticket sales will be arranged. This way, the members or fans of the respective clubs can directly go to their club tent to collect their tickets,” Chaubey said.

He added that the allocation would be made at discounted rates through the IFA.

“Clubs will request tickets through the IFA, which will manage the allocation at discounted rates.”

More than 14,000 seats in the middle tier behind both goalposts, covering the B2 and D2 sections, will be made available to IFA-registered clubs as well as Mohun Bagan, East Bengal and Mohammedan Sporting at discounted prices.

The AIFF is also planning to take the excitement beyond Kolkata by establishing Fan Parks across different districts. The initiative is aimed at allowing young footballers and supporters outside the city to experience the international fixtures collectively.

“On promoting grassroots football, while AIFF’s direct reach is limited, we propose creating Fan Parks across districts so young academy kids and fans outside Kolkata can watch the matches together on big screens,” Chaubey said.

Positive update on India-Brazil preparations

Chaubey also revealed that a five-member delegation from the Brazilian Football Confederation recently visited Kolkata to assess the arrangements for Brazil’s visit, including the stadium and ongoing infrastructure work.

“I am glad to inform you that they gave a very positive report,” he said.

There had initially been concerns regarding the condition of the playing surface after the stadium hosted several matches during the Durand Cup amid the monsoon season. However, Chaubey said the pitch has improved considerably and is expected to get better before Brazil arrive.

The two practice grounds located adjacent to the main stadium are also undergoing preparations ahead of the October 3 clash.