Cafu says 2026 World Cup is perfect time for Brazil to win again

TL;DR

Cafu believes Brazil is poised to win the 2026 World Cup, marking their first title in 24 years. He highlights the team's strengths and the impact of coach Carlo Ancelotti on their chances.

Key points

Cafu believes Brazil can win the 2026 World Cup
Brazil has not won the title in 24 years
Carlo Ancelotti is the new coach
Vinícius Junior is expected to perform well
Brazil is among the top five favorites to win

Mentioned in this story

Laureus Awards

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Cafu believes Brazil can win a sixth World Cup this year (Evaristo SA) (Evaristo SA/AFP/AFP) Brazil's two-time World Cup winner Cafu said on Monday he believes this year's tournament is the perfect time for the five-time champions to take back the crown for the first time for 24 years. Cafu was captain when Brazil won their fifth World Cup, beating Germany 2-0 in the 2002 final in Yokohama. He was also part of the side that beat Italy on penalties to win in 1994 in Pasadena. "Twenty-four years after the last title win, I think it's the perfect moment for Brazil," Cafu told reporters in Madrid, where he is attending the Laureus Awards. "We've also brought in a serial winner of a coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who will add to the greatness of the Brazilian national team." Cafu, who was a right-back, said Brazil already had strength in midfield and attack, so Ancelotti had focused on strengthening the defence for this year's tournament to be held in the US, Mexico and Canada. "Because if Brazil doesn't concede goals in a World Cup, they're sure to score a goal per game," Cafu said. He said he hoped Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, a player often embroiled in controversy, would have a strong tournament, saying: "The World Cup is the best way to overcome any kind of controversy. "In those eight matches (if they reach the final), Vinícius Junior has the potential to show the whole world his worth and what he can do in terms of football." Vinícius produced an assist in the 3-1 victory over Croatia in Orlando on April 1, which helped dispel doubts after the defeat against in another friendly. , 19, also shone in the the Croatia win. "I think it's a good time for him," said Cafu, who believes Real Madrid's decision to loan the forward to French club Lyon last year had been a positive move for the teenager. "It did him a lot of good. It helped him grow, play, make his mark, and become a key player. It's obvious that at Real Madrid, with so many stars, it's difficult for a young player to become a key player. "He's a young player who can contribute a lot to Brazil, and I'm sure Ancelotti is looking at him favourably," added Cafu. Bookmakers have placed Brazil among the top five favourites, with reigning European champions currently leading the way. gr/gj/dmc

Q&A

Why does Cafu think Brazil can win the 2026 World Cup?

Cafu believes Brazil has a strong team and a winning coach, Carlo Ancelotti, making it the perfect time to reclaim the title.

What role will Vinícius Junior play in Brazil's World Cup campaign?

Cafu hopes Vinícius Junior will have a strong tournament, showcasing his talent and overcoming past controversies.

How long has it been since Brazil last won the World Cup?

Brazil last won the World Cup 24 years ago, in 2002.