From a Shadow to the World's Fear: Ancelotti's Mission with the Brazilians
Ancelotti's tenure in Brazil initiates with a dispiriting start
Brazil's Seleção enjoyed a rude awakening during their first match under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, as they couldn't breach Ecuador's fortress in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Let's blast through the tactics, expectations, and challenges that lie ahead for the legendary Italian tactician, as he seeks to reinvent Brazilian football.
A Different Boss in Town
Brazil welcomed the 65-year-old maestro on May 26, 2025, following the departure of Dorival Júnior. Ancelotti, with a glittering CV that boasts successful stints at Real Madrid and other clubs, has become the first foreign coach to lead the Brazilian national team. Despite the rocky start with a scoreless draw against Ecuador, Ancelotti put on a brave face, expressing positivity and promising a more attack-minded approach going forward.
Qualifying for the Dance
The immediate goal for Ancelotti and his men is to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Currently sitting in fourth place with 22 points from 15 games, the Seleção will face Paraguay next Tuesday at home. Victory would lift their morale and bring them closer to the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. A potential seventh-place shootout awaits the side that fails to make it in the top six.
Dramatic Changes, shrugging off critics
A series of changes swept through the Brazilian team following their disastrous 1:4 defeat against arch-rival Argentina in March. After this drubbing and the subsequent parting of ways with Dorival Júnior, Ancelotti took over the reins. While Ancelotti has yet to show his hand, the criticisms continue to pour in from the media. “This Brazil is only a shadow of its former self,” the Spanish sports newspaper "Marca" lamented. But Ancelotti remains unfazed, always keeping his composure and inspiring confidence in his players.
Are the Brazilians ready to shake off their doppelgänger and step back into the spotlight? Only time will tell, but one thing's for certain – the world awaits a new, rejuvenated Seleção.
[1]: Carlo Ancelotti Biography[2]: Carlo Ancelotti Appointed as Brazil's New Coach[3]: Brazil's New Era under Ancelotti: Challenges and Opportunities[4]: Ancelotti Outlines His Vision for Brazilian Football
In the challenging journey to reinvent Brazilian football, coach Carlo Ancelotti is making strides in rejuvenating the Seleção, despite a slow start in the World Cup qualifiers. As the first foreign coach to lead Brazil, he continues to face criticisms from the media, but remains determined as they aim to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with the potential for a seventh-place shootout looming if they fail.
