World Cup 2026: Ancelotti wants Brazil to combine talent and defensive solidity

Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti spelled out what he considers the essential ingredients for winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking at a press conference on the eve of the friendly against Croatia, set for Tuesday at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, the Italian coach stressed the balance needed between creativity and defensive discipline.

« Of course, we are ready. Brazil’s last two titles, in 1994 and 2002, were built on a perfect combination of talent and defensive solidity » he recalled. Clear-eyed, Ancelotti hammered home his footballing philosophy: « History is very clear: to win, Brazil must combine talent – which we have – with a strong defence. There is no other way. I don’t believe in football that is purely offensive. » Drawn in Group C, the Seleção will face Scotland, Haiti and Morocco at the tournament.