Panaji: The Brazil national football team has been assured of top-notch security by authorities in India, but the five-time world champions are not leaving anything to chance.An eight-member security delegation from Brazil will arrive in Kolkata before the national team to ensure that the star footballers are well protected when they step into the country.A star-studded Brazilian squad captained by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defender Marquinhos and including Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior, Barcelona forward Raphinha, and Arsenal pair Gabriel Magalhaes and Bruno Guimaraes will arrive in Kolkata on Oct 1.The Selecao will play a friendly against India on Oct 3.“Brazil will have a security team comprising experts and former Army officials,” a source who is involved in organisation of the match told TOI. “They will be in Kolkata early on Wednesday, much before the team arrives. Their job is to ensure the safety of the players, delegates, and work with the police to ensure that security is as per international standards.”Last December, Lionel Messi’s visit to the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata during the India tour descended into mayhem as angry fans ripped up seats and invaded the field, prompting the Argentina superstar to cut short his visit. Thousands of fans were angry as their view of the star footballer was blocked by dozens of VIPs and organisers who were seen jostling for a selfie.“Extra precautions are being taken,” said another official.The hotel where Brazil will stay for three days will be turned into a fortress. According to sources, the Brazil football federation (CBF) has asked for a “secure training centre, situated no more than 25 minutes travelling time from the hotel and 24-hour security on all floors of the hotel where the team will stay.”At the stadium, restrooms and other public facilities are being renovated, while new fencing is being installed around the practice grounds as part of the security arrangements.Brazil played two friendlies against Australia as part of their Asia tour and are now headed to India for a historic clash against India. The former world champions are ranked fifth in the world, while India are at 137.Last week, India held World Cuppers Panama, ranked world no. 40, to a 1-1 draw at the Sree Kanteerava stadium in Bengaluru.
