Brazil Bets on Ancelotti to End World Cup Title Drought

Brazil, a five-time World Cup champion, is pinning its hopes on a 66-year-old Italian coach, Carlo Ancelotti, to end a 24-year title drought. Ancelotti, a highly successful manager, took over the national team last year, a rare move for a foreign coach in Brazil. Although his record of five wins, three losses, and two draws has been mixed, there is optimism he can lead the team, which is considered less star-powered than in past eras.

Brazil has not lifted the World Cup trophy since 2002, a long period for a nation passionate about soccer. In recent tournaments, they have struggled, failing to advance beyond the quarterfinals since hosting in 2014, which ended in a humiliating 7-1 semifinal defeat. This year's campaign begins on June 13 against Morocco in New Jersey.

Ancelotti's tactical approach favors a structured, compact style, often employing a 4-4-2 formation that can shift to an attacking 4-2-4. A significant question is the fitness of 34-year-old Neymar, who has been plagued by injuries. Despite these concerns, Ancelotti has included Neymar, calling him an "important player" crucial for a potential sixth World Cup title. The Brazilian soccer confederation is so confident in Ancelotti that his contract has been extended through the 2030 World Cup.