Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti says he is determined to make history at next year’s FIFA World Cup, declaring that “there is always a first time” as he aims to become the first foreign-born manager to lead a team to the title.
The Italian, who took charge of the five-time world champions in May, has already guided Brazil to qualification for the 2026 World Cup, to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Japan in Tokyo — following a commanding 5–0 victory over South Korea in Seoul — Ancelotti said his focus is on building a team capable of both entertaining and winning.
“My goal is to give my best for the Brazil national team, to help them perform at their best and win the World Cup,” he said. “Of course, no foreign-born coach has ever won the World Cup, but there is always a first time in life.”
Brazil, who finished fifth in South American qualifying, have undergone a managerial reshuffle since Tite stepped down after the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Ancelotti is their fourth coach in less than three years.
The team’s recent performance against South Korea reignited excitement among fans, who celebrated the return of “jogo bonito” (the beautiful game). Rising star Estevão scored twice, while Real Madrid duo Rodrygo and Vinícius Jr. also found the net.
While acknowledging the flair of Brazilian football, Ancelotti emphasised the importance of structure and teamwork.
“Brazilian players have the quality to play beautiful football, but that must be combined with teamwork and movement off the ball,” he said. “That’s what makes football effective and enjoyable.”
Brazil’s preparations continue without veteran forward Neymar, who remains sidelined with a thigh injury until at least November. Ancelotti, however, maintained confidence in the 33-year-old’s importance to the squad.
“If Neymar is in good condition, he can fit into any team in the world,” he said.
Under Ancelotti, Brazil have tightened up defensively, keeping four clean sheets in five games — a marked improvement from previous years. Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimarães credited the coach’s tactical discipline for the change.
“He’s Italian, so he likes his team to defend well,” Guimarães said. “At the World Cup, teams that don’t concede goals usually win the title.”
Tuesday’s opponents, Japan, were the first nation to qualify for the 2026 tournament but have never beaten Brazil in 13 meetings. Missing key players such as Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma and Liverpool’s Wataru Endo, coach Hajime Moriyasu said his side would approach the match as a valuable test.
“We want to win, grow as a team, and give everything for this challenge,” Moriyasu said. “Brazil are one of the top teams in the world, but our players are gaining experience in Europe, and that gives us confidence.”
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