Carlo Ancelotti officially became the coach of the Brazilian national team on May 12, 2025, until the end of the 2026 World Cup. There was anticipation and a little caution surrounding his debut: on June 5, in the Monumental Stadium in Guayaquil, Brazil tied 0-0 with Ecuador.
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During an after-game interview, Ancelotti appealed to the fans and emphasized, “We have to get better.” The Italian coach understood the enthusiasm of the Brazilian fans and clarified that his job is not easy and it would take time: “I understand that there is pressure, but I think that we will work well with time.”
Struggles in the First Match Against Ecuador
During this opening game, Brazil had weaknesses in team tactics, as evidenced by three shots on goal and 48 percent possession. Nevertheless, Ancelotti complimented the defensive discipline and the decisive performance of Vinicius Junior, who scored three goals. The goal of his starting lineup was to establish a balanced team, where Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, and Gerson formed a trio in the midfield in front of the defense. Vinicius Jr. and Gabriel Martinelli were wide, meanwhile, Estevao was on the right in attack; however, the team did not have creativity and was not fluid in attack.
First Win Against Paraguay
The first win came five days later, on 10 June, in the match against Paraguay: Brazil defeated Paraguay 1-0 in São Paulo, and Vincius Junior scored the winning goal following an exquisite move where Matheus Cunha showcased his talent. The triumph saw Brazil qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Ancelotti emphasized the team's work ethic: “Everything was good in 15 days,” and highlighted the team effort and high pressing, which became key elements of his new modern tactical style.
Ancelotti’s Tactical Reflections
According to the coach, he likes the team's tactical positioning: “We were under pressure, played as a team.” He also noted the good work done by the attackers, especially Vincius, Cunha, Martinelli, and Raphinha, as well as the defense through Casemiro.
Bet on FIFA Club World Cup with 1xBetLineups combining experience with youth
During both games, Ancelotti worked out his structures in the same way: seasoned players who proved themselves in the past teamed up with talented young players:
Against Ecuador (0-0)
- GK: Alisson
- Defense: Alex Sandro, Marquinhos, Alexsandro, Vanderson
- Midfield: Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Gerson
- Attack: Estevão, Richarlison, Vinicius Jr
Against Paraguay (1-0)
- GK: Alisson
- Defense: Alex Sandro, Marquinhos, Alexsandro, Vanderson
- Midfield: Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Matheus Cunha
- Attack: Martinelli, Raphinha, Vinicius Jr
The attacking front suffered some changes for this game, entering Matheus Cunha, Martinelli and Raphinha, with Vinicius playing more in the center.
The tactical system did not change; however, the full-backs were more in an attacking position, and the wingers were more proficient.
Such an arrangement can be characterized as the philosophy of Ancelotti, as it offers a robust defensive set-up with midfielders playing essential roles in defense and buildups, in addition to wingers and full-backs to add attacking flair.
Casemiro’s return
The return of Casemiro is one of the main points of this new phase. Since October 2023, he had not been recalled to the squad until Ancelotti decided to summon him after almost 18 months, to bolster the midfield ahead of the qualifiers. His profile was applauded by the coach, who had directed him to Real Madrid, saying, “He’s a great player… the national team needs players like him, with charisma, personality, talent… commitment, attitude, sacrifice.” These qualities are considered fundamental by Ancelotti in preparation for the World Cup.
Casemiro also stated that he spoke with Ancelotti during the negotiations with the CBF (Brazilian FA), with Ancelotti making it clear that he wanted Casemiro in the squad. Casemiro, who performed well with Manchester United (42 matches and 5 goals), was overlooked by Dorival Junior but returns with added weight and experience.
Bet on FIFA Club World Cup with 1xBetKey Points of the first two games of Ancelotti
- Defensive reorganization: Brazil was never in danger, and their back line was very well coordinated and disciplined;
- Midfield strengthened with experience: Casemiro came back and acted as a ballast in the key positions;
- A mixture of younger and older talent: young kids such as Estevão and Martinelli were on the same pitch with big names;
- Lack of creativity and flair in the first game: In the match against Ecuador, Brazil generated only a few chances but was not able to convert them;
- Visible progress in the second game: in the game against Paraguay, the team became more fluent, moved more, and pressed;
- The slow process of adjustment to Ancelotti's model: a focus on balance and equilibrium, patience with the ball, and properly developed transitions.
Future of the Ancelotti era
During his first two games, Ancelotti managed to change the identity of his team, not with a massive overhaul of the player names, but in terms of stability - a steady and organized team with a focus on playing well. There is a greater defence solidity, but not a lot of flair in the attack, hoping for a better future. The recent comeback of Casemiro, once a pillar of the midfield, is an indicator of a change in priorities: the skill should be combined with energy and effective management.
And things have lightened with qualification for the World Cup being assured. The coach can sense that there is still space to be covered in the final third, but he remains confident in the process. “Will we play like Real Madrid? It depends... like last season’s team, yes — not like this one," he responded by saying that Brazil would not mimic any team on the club level, but will possess a system adapted to his players' quality. He continued: ”We have a strong base. Now we need to build the rest with time and balance.”
The next step on this road, it seems, will be in September, as Brazil plays some international games. This opportunity allows them to strengthen their offensive organization further and bring back players such as Rodrygo and a fully recovered Neymar. Let’s see if Ancelotti is the man who can restore Brazil to its dominance in world football.
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