Brazil’s 2026 World Cup Opener: Ancelotti’s Quest to End a 24-Year Drought

Brazil open Group C on June 12 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, against Morocco, 2022 semi-finalists. Brazil (rank 6) face Morocco (rank 7); a win preserves Brazil’s 20-match unbeaten run in World Cup openers and keeps a sixth title within reach. Seleção’s last triumph came in 2002, ending a 24-year drought—the longest since the 1994-2002 gap. Brazil qualified fifth in CONMEBOL (8-4-6) and remains only nation with five titles.

Ancelotti’s Brazil face Morocco test

Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil’s first foreign World Cup coach, brings five Champions League crowns. The core includes Alisson, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhães, Casemiro, Bruno Guimarães, Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha. Injuries have removed right-back Wesley and left-back Alex Sandro; Danilo and Ibañez now cover the flanks. Neymar remains in calf rehabilitation and will miss the opener, leaving Brazil without a proven No 9 as Matheus Cunha, Igor Thiago and Endrick vie for the role.

The Guardian

Ancelotti said fear sharpens focus and that Brazil are ‘absolutely confident we can face any team.’ Alisson praised transformed atmosphere and ‘weight of the jersey.’ Vinícius asserted ‘at the same level as other major teams’ and aims to ‘put Brazil back where it never should have left.’ The CBF confirmed Neymar’s rehab and his likely absence from the opener.

Reuters

Analysts warn the gamble on an unfit Neymar and the lack of a proven No 9; Matheus Cunha has only one Brazil goal. Full-back depth is thin, with Danilo and Ibañez the only right-back options. Sources differ on Neymar’s return—some expect training within a week, others label his participation ‘uncertain.’ Reports also vary on midfield depth, with one account citing five midfielders and another calling for additional cover. Critics say Ancelotti’s four-attacker set-up may expose the midfield against a disciplined Morocco.

Sports Illustrated

“His position perhaps has more pressure than being the president of the country.” — Alisson Becker, goalkeeper

ESPN

“Fear is an important part of life. If you're not afraid and you're caught off guard, you might see a lion and think it's a cat.” — Carlo Ancelotti, coach

Reuters

“We’re here to try to change history and put Brazil back where it never should have left, which is back at the top.” — Vinícius Júnior, forward

ESPN

“Being the favourites does not guarantee anything for anyone. Sometimes, it actually brings extra weight – and even greater responsibility – like the ‘weight of the jersey’.” — Alisson Becker, goalkeeper

Alisson Becker hails Ancelotti as a ‘true winner’ahead of World Cup opener

A win would reinforce Brazil’s status, ease pressure and make Ancelotti the first foreign coach to win the World Cup. A loss would heighten scrutiny of selections. Brazil’s next matches are Haiti (June 18, Philadelphia) and Scotland (June 24, Miami); topping the group would set a quarter-final against England.

CBS Sports