Five-time World Cup winners Brazil have struggled to reach the top in recent decades. Since their last trophy, their best finish came in 2014 when they reached fourth place. Ahead of the 2026 World Cup, they are often assumed to be favourites. However, Vinícius Jr insists Brazil is not among the favourites and that the team itself does not want that label.
At just 24, Brazil have brought in a foreign coach for the first time in decades to try to end a long trophy drought. Italian Carlo Ancelotti joined the squad in May last year, and the team’s results have been mixed: two wins, one draw, and one defeat. Brazil qualified for the World Cup after finishing fifth in their group during the qualifiers.
Vinícius points to recent performances as evidence that Brazil should not be considered favourites. During the October international break, Brazil defeated South Korea but suffered a shock loss to Japan. In November, they beat Senegal but drew with Tunisia.
Reflecting on the squad’s form, Vinícius said: “Based on our recent results, Brazil is not a favourite. But for the jersey and our players, we will do everything we can to bring Brazil back to the top. We don’t want to be favourites; we want to take Brazil to the top.”
Ancelotti, who joined after leaving Real Madrid where Vinícius also plays has eased pressure on the team. “We just need to play well. Since Ancelotti arrived, I’ve gained a clear idea of how we should play. He has taken a lot of pressure off us,” Vinícius added.
The responsibility of achieving World Cup success falls heavily on Vinícius’ shoulders. In 45 appearances for Brazil, he has scored eight goals. This season for Real Madrid, the 25-year-old has played 43 matches, scoring 17 goals and providing eight assists. “I’m in a very happy moment. I expect to maintain my club form for the national team. I don’t pay attention to what people say; I know my job and how to perform at the World Cup,” he said.
Brazil will start their World Cup campaign against Morocco on 13 June. They are drawn in Group C alongside Scotland and Haiti.
