Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has expressed confidence that the Seleção are on course for the FIFA 2026 World Cup knockout stage after Friday’s convincing 3-0 victory over Haiti.
- +Ancelotti assures Brazil fans of World Cup knockout spot after Haiti win
The five-time world champions bounced back from an underwhelming 1-1 draw against Morocco, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice in Philadelphia while Vinicius Junior found the net for the second consecutive match of the tournament.
The five-time world champions bounced back from an underwhelming 1-1 draw against Morocco, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice in Philadelphia while Vinicius Junior found the net for the second consecutive match of the tournament.
The victory lifted Brazil to the top of Group C on four points, level with Morocco but ahead on goal difference, leaving Ancelotti’s side on the brink of qualification for the last 32 with one group match remaining.
“It was a complete match, much better in the first half,” Ancelotti told reporters after the game.
“In the second half, we had more control, but we created plenty of chances and could have scored more goals.
“It was what we expected from this game: better quality, fewer mistakes, more effectiveness in attack and more control at the back.”
The Italian coach was pleased with his team’s intensity but believes there is still room for improvement as the tournament progresses.
“In terms of intensity, it was a good match. Obviously, we still have to improve, and we will improve to be ready for the knockout stage,” he said.
Brazil will now shift their focus to Wednesday’s final Group C fixture against Scotland in Miami, with victory likely enough to secure top spot and potentially a more favourable route through the knockout rounds.
Scotland suffered a 1-0 defeat to Morocco earlier on Friday and will be fighting to keep their World Cup hopes alive when they face the South American giants.
“We want to prepare well for the match,” Ancelotti said.
“Scotland have their own characteristics and caused problems for Morocco today. We need to focus on the game, stay calm and composed.”
The former Real Madrid manager also provided encouraging news regarding Neymar, who is nearing a return after recovering from a calf injury.
The 34-year-old has not featured for Brazil since October 2023 but is back in training and could make his long-awaited comeback against Scotland.
“Neymar will train individually tomorrow, then rejoin the group on Monday, and he will be ready for the game against Scotland,” Ancelotti revealed.
The potential return of Brazil’s all-time leading scorer would provide another major boost for a team beginning to find its rhythm as the World Cup enters a decisive phase.
