Underestimating Morocco would be a big mistake, says Brazil coach Ancelotti ahead of World Cup opener

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Ahead of Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign opener, head coach Carlo Ancelotti and star forward Vinícius Júnior spoke about the team’s preparations and ambitions, clearly stating that their goal is not just to perform well but to win a record sixth World Cup title for the country.

Brazil will face Morocco in their opening Group match on Saturday, a fixture considered highly important as the five-time champions continue their long wait for a World Cup trophy since 2002. The team has been eliminated in the quarter-finals in the last two editions, adding extra pressure on both players and coaching staff.

Speaking to reporters before the match, Ancelotti admitted that feeling nervous ahead of such a major tournament is natural. He said that fear is not always negative, but rather something that helps players stay alert and focused.

“Fear is an important part of life. If you underestimate any danger, you can get into trouble. Fear helps you stay careful and prepare better. That is why a bit of tension before a World Cup is completely normal,” he said.

The Brazil coach stressed that modern football has no weak teams and warned against underestimating Morocco, who reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup after defeating strong sides like Spain and Portugal.

“We respect Morocco completely. They are one of the strongest teams in Africa. If we want to win, we must perform at our absolute best in every department,” Ancelotti added.

This is Ancelotti’s first World Cup as Brazil’s head coach, which he described as a special moment in his career, along with a major responsibility given Brazil’s football legacy.

Star forward Vinícius Júnior also expressed his mindset ahead of the tournament, saying his focus is entirely on helping Brazil win the title rather than chasing individual awards or records.

“I am not here to become the best player of the tournament or win individual honors. My only goal is to help Brazil win the sixth World Cup,” he said.

Vinícius also reflected on Brazil’s quarter-final exit against Croatia in the 2022 World Cup, saying the team has learned important lessons about maintaining focus until the final whistle.

The Real Madrid forward added that he feels more experienced and fully fit this time, and praised Ancelotti for giving players freedom and confidence on the pitch.

“In a World Cup, small details decide matches. The coach always tells us to stay focused for 90 minutes. We will go into the tournament with that mindset,” he said.

Brazil remain one of the most successful teams in World Cup history, having won the title five times in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002.

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