Brazil head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the most successful nation in the competition’s history, having won the title a record five times. From legends like Pelé and Garrincha to modern greats such as Ronaldo Nazário, Ronaldinho and Rivaldo, the Seleção’s legacy is built on excellence.
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However, since lifting their fifth trophy at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Brazil have struggled to reclaim that dominance. They exited in the quarter-finals in 2006, fell in the Round of 16 in 2010, and endured a historic 7–1 semi-final defeat to Germany national football team at the 2014 FIFA World Cup on home soil.
More recently, they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by Belgium national football team in 2018 and Croatia national football team in 2022.
Now, Brazil look to a new era under Carlo Ancelotti, one of the most decorated coaches in the game and the first foreign manager to lead the national team in decades.
Drawn in Group C alongside Morocco national football team, Haiti national football team and Scotland national football team, Brazil will be expected to progress, but handling those expectations has often proven to be their biggest challenge.
Players to watch
Vinícius Júnior (Real Madrid)
Now the face of Brazil’s new generation, Vinícius brings explosive pace and direct attacking threat, capable of deciding matches in moments.
Raphinha (Barcelona)
Raphinha offers creativity, relentless pressing and goal contributions from wide areas, making him key against tightly organised defences.
João Pedro (Chelsea)
A versatile forward, João Pedro adds movement and unpredictability in the final third as he pushes for a breakthrough tournament.
Gabriel Magalhães (Arsenal)
Strong and commanding, Gabriel will be central to Brazil’s defensive solidity, often crucial in knockout football.
Group stage fixtures
June 13, 2026: Brazil vs Morocco, New York/New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford
June 19, 2026: Brazil vs Haiti, Philadelphia
June 24, 2026: Scotland vs Brazil, Miami Gardens, Florida
As the tournament approaches, Brazil once again carry the weight of history, and the hope of returning to the summit of world football.