World Cup Preview: Brazil

Brazil enter the tournament looking to finally end a 24-year World Cup drought, having not lifted the famous trophy since 2002. The Selecao endured a surprisingly turbulent qualification campaign, leaving fans anxious and demanding a sharp return to their traditional samba flair. However, expectations remain sky-high as the five-time champions aim to assert their dominance on North American soil once again.

Fixtures (UK time)

Morocco, June 13, 11pm
Haiti, June 20, 1:30am
Scotland, June 24, 11pm

How They Qualified

Brazil endured a bumpy ride through the gruelling South American qualification campaign, suffering defeats to Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina (twice), Colombia and Uruguay. They ultimately rallied in the latter stages to secure fifth place and an automatic qualification spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.

The Manager

Carlo Ancelotti made history by becoming Brazil’s first-ever foreign permanent head coach after leaving Real Madrid. The legendary Italian tactician relies on a flexible, pragmatic approach that prioritises player freedom and tactical calm, an ethos highly respected by a squad full of familiar faces. While fans were initially sceptical of breaking a century-long tradition of domestic coaches, his unmatched elite pedigree has bought him immense trust ahead of his World Cup managerial debut.

The Star

At 25, Vinicius Junior is the undisputed talisman for his country, inheriting the massive burden of creative leadership. Coming off another superb campaign with Real Madrid where he notched 22 goals, the dynamic winger will be expected to terrorise defences from the left flank and spearhead the Brazilian frontline.

The Familiar Face

Casemiro‘s four-year stint at Manchester United formally comes to an end on June 30. At 34, the combative midfielder brings invaluable tournament experience, steel, and much-needed leadership to a transitioning squad looking for a steady anchor in the engine room.

Did you know?

Brazil are the only nation to have played in every single FIFA World Cup since the tournament’s inception in 1930. They switched their kit from white to the iconic yellow and green jersey as a superstition following their heartbreaking 1950 defeat on home soil.

The Prediction

Quarter-Finals

Brazil possess more than enough individual brilliance to comfortably navigate Group C as winners, but this is far from a vintage Selecao side. While Ancelotti will bring tactical stability, a lack of squad depth relative to European heavyweights means a potential roadblock opponent like France or Spain will likely halt their journey in the last eight.

Cover Photo: Brazil – Flag” by L.C.Nøttaasen is licensed under CC BY 2.0 .