Brazil prepares for World Cup opener against Morocco under Ancelotti’s leadership

By Ama Serwah — 12 June 2026 — 3 min read

Ancelotti’s challenge with Brazil

Carlo Ancelotti faces the task of ending Brazil’s World Cup drought, which currently stands as the joint-longest period without a title for the nation. This mirrors the situation before the 1994 World Cup, when Brazil had not won the tournament in 24 years. The team’s qualifying campaign for the current tournament was described as disastrous, finishing fifth after six defeats, more than any other South American team that qualified. Despite this, Ancelotti has the opportunity to become the third manager to win both the World Cup and the Champions League, following Marcello Lippi and Vicente del Bosque.

Alisson, the Liverpool goalkeeper, commented on Ancelotti’s impact, stating that his arrival has transformed the team’s environment. Alisson noted Ancelotti’s strong presence and his ability to foster a work-focused atmosphere free from controversy. He also highlighted Ancelotti’s extensive success in football, suggesting that his position carries immense pressure, potentially more than that of a country’s president.

Ancelotti’s decision to omit Chelsea’s João Pedro and recall Neymar, 34, for the first time since 2023 has drawn some criticism. However, Neymar sustained a calf injury a few days after his call-up, making him likely to miss the opening game. Teenage star Endrick and Brentford’s Igor Thiago are vying to lead the attack against Morocco.

Team dynamics and key players

Ancelotti’s primary challenge will be to establish a balanced attack, building upon what is expected to be one of the tournament’s strongest defenses. The central defensive partnership of captain Marquinhos and Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães is considered a foundational element. Gabriel Magalhães was reportedly consoled by his Brazil teammate after missing a crucial penalty in the Champions League final recently.

However, the full-back positions present a concern, with players like Douglas Santos, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, all in their thirties, filling roles that were historically strong points for Brazil, exemplified by figures such as Carlos Alberto in 1970, Branca and Jorginho in 1994, and Cafu and Roberto Carlos in 2002.

In attack, Vinícius Júnior, who previously excelled under Ancelotti at Real Madrid, and Raphinha are expected to provide offensive spark. A revitalized Casemiro will anchor a strong midfield that also includes Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães.

Expectations and opening match

Brazil is preparing for a challenging opening match against Morocco, a team that made history by reaching the semi-finals in 2022. This fixture, featuring two teams ranked within Fifa’s top 10, is one of the standout matches of the group stage. The game will be held at the MetLife Stadium, which has a capacity of 82,500 and will also host the final on 19 July. Thousands of supporters from both nations are expected to attend.

Cafu, a former Brazil captain, has expressed confidence in Ancelotti’s ability to restore the team’s identity and belief. Writing for Gazzetta dello Sport, Cafu praised Ancelotti’s international experience, his skill in managing top players, and his composure, deeming these qualities fundamental for a national team that has often lacked decisiveness in critical moments. Cafu believes Ancelotti brings serenity and leadership, which are crucial for Brazil to regain confidence and identity while maintaining its characteristic creativity.

Cafu drew parallels to the 2002 World Cup, recalling how a shift in team atmosphere, encouraged by coach Felipe Scolari and exemplified by Ronaldinho’s joyful approach, led to a more unified and successful squad. He predicts Brazil will be among the contenders for the final victory, stating that with Ancelotti and the squad’s potential, the Seleção has every reason to reach at least the semi-finals. Brazil has a history of winning its group in every World Cup since 1978.

The team has an opportunity to demonstrate its intent against Morocco, especially with a potential quarter-final clash against England if Thomas Tuchel’s side tops Group L.

Source: theguardian.com