As the FIFA World Cup 2026 draws closer, five-time champions Brazil will face 2022 semi-finalists Morocco in a high-stakes opening clash. After disappointing performances against strong European sides in recent tournaments, Brazil have appointed coach Carlo Ancelotti with the mission of delivering a sixth star on the famous yellow jersey.
Brazil is bracing for the World Cup with the inclusion of Neymar Junior in Ancelotti’s squad.
The star forward will take part in the tournament despite not having been capped for over three years.
Ancelotti is facing an uphill task amid inconsistent performances from an unbalanced side.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker and centre-backs Gabriel Magalhães and Marquinhos provide a defensive base that is arguably one of the strongest in the tournament.
However, the Brazilian side is lacking quality at full-back, central midfield, and centre-forward compared to previous Brazil squads.
Ancelotti was brought in towards the end of an unconvincing qualifying campaign, during which the team lost six out of 18 games.
Friendly defeats to Japan and France since the former Real Madrid coach took charge have done little to inspire confidence.
A defeat against a strong Morocco side in the opening match would set alarm bells ringing for Brazil.
Led by Paris Saint-Germain’s Achraf Hakimi, the Atlas Lions stunned Spain and Portugal on their route to the semi-finals in Qatar 2022.
Also read: For World Cup glory, Brazil turns to Carlo Ancelotti
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