2026 WorldNo Favourite For World Cup: Ancelotti
NEW JERSEY (US), June 13 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti said Friday there is no outright favourite to win the FIFA World Cup and named Brazil among the title contenders, reported Xinhua.
Speaking on the eve of Brazil's first match in Group C against Morocco in New Jersey, Ancelotti singled out Spain as a team capable of lifting the trophy but stopped short of labelling the reigning European champion the frontrunner. "Spain is one of the favourites, but at this moment there is no clear favourite for the World Cup," the Italian told reporters.
“It will be a very balanced World Cup, with many teams capable of competing until the end."
Brazil is sixth in the latest FIFA world rankings, only one place above Morocco, which secured its second Africa Cup of Nations title in January.
Ancelotti described Mohamed Ouahbi's team as "very organised and with quality."
"Morocco is one of the best teams in Africa. It is a very well-prepared and strong team," the former Real Madrid boss said.
Ancelotti has led Brazil to seven wins, two draws and three defeats since taking charge in May 2025.
He vowed his side would compete "with any team in the world" as it pursues a sixth World Cup title and first since 2002.
"We have individual quality, experience... We have complete confidence that we can compete with everyone," he said.
When asked how he felt about leading Brazil for the first time in a World Cup match, the 67-year-old replied: "It is the most successful national team in the world. I feel responsibility and honour, and I want to begin with joy and happiness because this is a very beautiful moment in my story."
--BERNAMA-XINHUA
