Brazil entered the World Cup facing numerous challenges. Following the tumultuous period since the 2022 Qatar tournament, which saw four managerial changes, the call-up of 95 players, and a political upheaval that resulted in the dismissal of the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) president, the atmosphere was fraught with uncertainty. Fans were grappling with pessimism. However, the arrival of Carlo Ancelotti has marked a turning point. Under his guidance, the team has regained its form and rekindled hope among supporters who are dreaming of a sixth World Cup title, ending a 24-year drought, the longest since the gap between 1970 and 1994.
Ancelotti has provided a stabilizing presence for the players. Even seasoned professionals like Alisson, Danilo, Marquinhos, and Casemiro feel a renewed sense of comfort with such an esteemed figure at the helm, noted for his remarkable success in the Champions League, having secured five titles.
“It’s undeniable that this World Cup cycle has been very difficult for us players,” Alisson remarked, reflecting on his third World Cup experience. “We’ve experienced all these difficulties first-hand. But since Ancelotti’s arrival, the atmosphere has been transformed. He gives us the peace of mind that comes from an environment focused on work, without having to worry about controversies or other issues”
Marquinhos added, “Our team wasn’t in great form, but Ancelotti made the necessary changes,”
The victory against Japan in the last-32 was another testament to Ancelotti’s impact. Historically, conceding a goal in the first half would disrupt Brazil’s game, as shown by their record since 2023, where they conceded first 12 times, resulting in seven losses, four draws, and only one victory against Chile in a World Cup qualifier in October 2024.
When Keishu Sano scored, it seemed like a significant setback. Brazil’s discomfort was evident. Yet, Ancelotti managed to turn the situation around. He utilized the half-time break effectively, addressing the players in a manner that left them surprised.
“He’s very smart. He knows how to get the best out of the players he has and help them improve. He managed to change our mindset and created a philosophy centred on wellbeing.” Gabriel Martinelli, who netted the decisive goal against Japan, shared with CazeTV. “Ancelotti is an incredible man,”
Notably, Ancelotti has made bold decisions, including sidelining Neymar from the starting lineup. The 34-year-old has not performed at his previous level and is not fully fit. While less experienced managers might have still chosen Neymar and ten others, Ancelotti has limited the star to just 14 minutes on the pitch in this World Cup, during the match against Scotland, and he did not play against Japan. Neymar, for his part, has accepted his role in the squad, recognizing that he is no longer the team’s primary star; that distinction now goes to Vinícius Júnior.
Ancelotti’s adept man-management has made him an ideal coach for the Seleção. He recognizes that while Brazil is not lacking in talent, that alone cannot secure a World Cup victory. To bolster his approach, he collaborates with his assistants Paul Clement, Francesco Mauri, and his son Davide Ancelotti, along with Marisa Santiago, the first psychologist to join Brazil’s coaching staff for a World Cup. Ancelotti consults with Santiago daily, seeking her expertise on enhancing the players’ mental resilience. She has also been in discussions with the players, aiding Ancelotti in cultivating a positive environment.
As Brazil prepares to face Norway, Ancelotti confronts the most significant challenge yet. Since their triumph over Germany in 2002, Brazil has struggled to defeat European teams in World Cup knockout matches, suffering losses to France (2006), the Netherlands (2010), Germany (2014), Belgium (2018), and Croatia (2022). Beyond neutralizing Erling Haaland, Ancelotti must also address the psychological aspect of the team to prevent the haunting memories of previous tournaments from resurfacing.
If Brazil secures a win on Sunday, they may not immediately be viewed as the top contenders for the World Cup. However, they could emerge with a fresh perspective that reignites belief in their potential to finally capture the prestigious trophy once more.
- Brazil
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- Carlo Ancelotti
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