Ronaldinho returns to Kerala as Brazil Legends reunite with India

Kochi, Kerala is set to witness a football extravaganza as Brazil Legends, spearheaded by World Cup winners Ronaldinho and Rivaldo, take on the Indian All Stars in the 'Return of the Titans' exhibition match at Jawaharlal Nehru International Stadium. The event, which reunites stars from Brazil's illustrious football history with some of India's most recognizable former internationals, has already attracted a sell-out crowd.

The Brazilian squad boasts Ballon d'Or winners Ronaldinho (2005) and Rivaldo (1999), alongside other World Cup winners such as Edmilson, Paulo Sergio, Jorginho, and Viola. India's line-up features Kerala football legends I M Vijayan, Jo Paul Ancheri, C K Vineeth, N P Pradeep, M Suresh, and K T Chacko, alongside international players like Bibiano Fernandes, Mehtab Hossain, Arnab Mondal, Climax Lawrence, and Rino Anto.

For Ronaldinho, this appearance in his hometown marks his return to Kerala after a decade-long absence. The Indian All Stars squad last faced the Brazil Legends in Chennai last year, where Ricardo Oliveira and Alvito scored for Brazil, and Bibiano Fernandes equalized for India in a 2-1 defeat. The Brazil Football Confederation is reportedly set to receive a ₹400 million fee for this friendly fixture against India.