Brazil's football federation (CBF) continues to back head coach Carlo Ancelotti despite the team's premature exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Brazil were eliminated in the Round of 16 after a 2-1 loss to Norway at MetLife Stadium, courtesy of a late double from Erling Haaland.
Haaland's heroics end Brazil's campaign
Erling Haaland produced a sensational late double as Norway shocked five-time champions Brazil 2-1 in the Round of 16. The Scandinavian side, who had never progressed beyond the Round of 16 at the World Cup, withstood sustained Brazilian pressure before striking twice in the closing stages through their star striker. Neymar's stoppage-time penalty reduced the deficit, but it came too late to prevent Brazil's exit.
CBF reaffirms faith in Ancelotti
Brazil's national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano said after the game, as quoted by ESPN, "It is now up to us to emphasise the need for a cycle that proceeds normally, with a little more calmness; continuing our work with the coach through the 2030 World Cup while making the necessary adjustments." He added, "May we have at least a minimum of tranquillity to move forward and prepare for the next World Cup."
Ancelotti took charge of the men's national team in May last year after leaving Real Madrid. The five-time UEFA Champions League winner signed a contract extension in May with CBF that will keep him through the 2030 FIFA World Cup. The 67-year-old aimed to lift the sixth World Cup title for Brazil, having achieved everything at the club level. Instead, Brazil had their worst World Cup performance since the group stage exit in 1966.
Caetano highlights positives amid disappointment
Caetano said that they are "still picking up the pieces" and chose to focus on the positives, such as the commitment and professionalism shown by the unit during their World Cup run. "Obviously, we're still picking up the pieces," Caetano said. "Everyone is very sad, frustrated, and disappointed -- the players, the staff and the coaching staff. On the other hand, we cannot dismiss the time we spent together. Specifically those 38 days during which the players, all of us, and you all had the opportunity to witness their level of commitment and professionalism -- from the first day to the last."
Ancelotti and CBF look ahead
Ancelotti said after the match that they will use the loss as "fuel for the next cycle." CBF expressed support for this sentiment, posting on X: "The story of the Brazilian National Team is one of great achievements, but also of moments that strengthen our journey. Today we bid farewell to the World Cup, certain that we will return even stronger. Thank you, Brazilian fans."
Brazil skipper and Paris Saint-Germain star Marquinhos issued a public apology after the loss and urged continued support for the men's team. Yet to win a World Cup since the 2002 triumph, the skipper said fans have "four years to work toward achieving great things at the next World Cup." On his opponents, Marquinhos said, "They managed to be effective, while we squandered many of the chances we had. We had a penalty kick saved and other opportunities. In the World Cup, the team that makes the fewest mistakes ends up coming out on top."
