Brazil World Cup 2026

Brazil arrive at the 2026 World Cup determined to end the longest trophy drought in their storied history. The five-time champions have not lifted the trophy since 2002, and their quarter-final penalty defeat to Croatia in 2022 was another painful chapter. Under Carlo Ancelotti — the most decorated club manager alive — the Seleção are blending their traditional attacking flair with a more structured approach. Vinícius Júnior has become one of the planet's best players at Real Madrid, Rodrygo and Raphinha supply the firepower, and Bruno Guimarães runs the midfield. With huge South American diaspora support across North America, Brazil expect nothing less than a sixth star.

Brazil endured an unusually bumpy South American campaign, eventually sealing qualification as CONMEBOL's fifth-placed side in June 2025. Drawn into Group C with Morocco, Scotland and Haiti, they are heavy favourites to top the group — but Ancelotti's challenge is turning individual brilliance into a coherent, title-winning machine.

Carlo Ancelotti brings his adaptable, experience-driven approach to a 4-3-3 dripping with attacking talent. Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha supply pace and goals from the flanks, Bruno Guimarães anchors midfield, and Gabriel Magalhães bolsters a defence that has been Brazil's weak spot. Expect fluid, expressive football balanced by defensive structure.

Brazil are the most successful nation in World Cup history with five titles (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002) and the only team to appear at every tournament since 1930. Their 1970 side — featuring Pelé, Jairzinho and Rivelino — is widely regarded as the greatest team ever assembled. Their 24-year drought since 2002 is the longest in Brazilian history.

Pelé is the only player to win three World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970), and Brazil are the only nation to have competed at every single World Cup since the tournament began in 1930 — a perfect 23-tournament attendance record.