This is the reason Carlo Ancelotti is confident he can lead Brazil to win the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil National Team head coach Carlo Ancelotti is approaching the final tournament of the 2026 World Cup with extremely high optimism. The former Real Madrid tactician is not merely targeting to reach the final match - he is fully convinced he can lead the Samba Team to lift the sport's most prestigious trophy. This confidence is not baseless; it is rooted in his assessment that Brazil currently stands as one of the world's strongest sides, ready to overcome any opponent blocking their path.

Furthermore, Ancelotti is fully aware of the massive public expectations resting on his shoulders, yet he dismisses the idea that success can be achieved through shortcuts. His confidence comes purely from his decades-long track record and lifelong dedication to Football. He stated this openly in an official release published by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Tuesday, 19 May 2026.

"I am not a magician. I am simply a professional who has worked in football for 40 years. I have the knowledge and conviction that this squad can compete against the very best teams on the planet."

The winning champion mentality Ancelotti is building is also reflected in his uncompromising ambition. He refuses to settle for partial achievement, maintaining that reaching the tournament final will mean nothing if it does not end with lifting the trophy. For him, qualifying for the final is only part of the process - claiming the championship is the absolute final goal.

"Can we make it to the final? Yes, we can reach the final. But that is not enough. The entire purpose of getting to the final is to win it," Ancelotti remarked.

How does Ancelotti plan to turn this ambition into reality? The foundation lies with the 26-player squad he has just called up. The coach has assembled a formidable balanced roster that blends veteran experience, consistent reliability and fresh young talent. Established core stars including Alisson Becker, Ederson Moraes, Marquinhos, Gabriel Magalhaes, Casemiro, Lucas Paqueta, Raphinha and Vinicius Junior have all been confirmed as the backbone of the side.

In a notable move to boost attacking threat and add proven leadership inside the dressing room, Ancelotti has recalled global superstar Neymar. The 34-year-old, currently playing for Santos, returns to the national team set-up for the first time since his last international appearance on 17 October 2023. At the same time, as long-term squad investment, Ancelotti has also injected fresh energy by including two explosive young prospects Endrick and Rayan, who will both make their World Cup debuts at this tournament.

Now, with this solid constructed squad and the steely mentality forged over 40 years of elite coaching experience, Ancelotti is ready to lead Brazil through the high-stakes tournament. The first real test will arrive in the group stage, where the Samba Team will need to execute their game plan perfectly to navigate past tough opposing sides Morocco, Haiti and Scotland - all of whom will be looking to derail Brazil's title campaign.