Story perspectives

Ancelotti Debuts Brazil 2026 Opener, Neymar Out

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Carlo Ancelotti became Brazil’s first foreign-born head coach, launching the team’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Brazil opened Group C against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey while Neymar missed with a calf injury.
Alisson Becker called Ancelotti a true winner and said his arrival transformed the squad’s atmosphere.
Ancelotti acknowledged Brazil’s recent World Cup disappointments but asserted the team can compete with any nation despite not being a clear favorite.

History

Historical Context

Guus Hiddink took charge of South Korea in January 2001 and, at the co-hosted 2002 World Cup, guided the team to a historic fourth-place finish—the first Asian side to reach the semi-finals—after four knockout wins, notably a 2-1 golden-goal upset of Italy. His breakthrough showed that foreign coaches could transform national programs.

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Story summary

Carlo Ancelotti became Brazil’s first foreign-born head coach, launching the team’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Brazil opened Group C against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey while Neymar missed with a calf injury.
Alisson Becker called Ancelotti a true winner and said his arrival transformed the squad’s atmosphere.
Ancelotti acknowledged Brazil’s recent World Cup disappointments but asserted the team can compete with any nation despite not being a clear favorite.

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