2026 World Cup: Ancelotti explains Brazil’s defeat to Norway

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has reflected on the Selecao’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, admitting that a key decision during their Round of 16 clash with Norway contributed to the team’s elimination.

Brazil crashed out of the tournament after losing to Norway, with Erling Haaland scoring twice late in the game before Neymar Jr converted a penalty for the South Americans.

Speaking to ESPN, Ancelotti said he believed the turning point came during the hydration break, when he felt his side had lost control of the match.

“I think we lost the World Cup during the hydration break vs Norway.

“Why? Because until that moment, the team was in control. It’s also true that Norway had a lot of possession in their half, they played the same way against England. They controlled the game, and they could’ve won.

“That’s where my mistake may have been, thinking that the team had lost control of the game when it hadn’t.

“I made a few changes to the lineup, and then we had the problem with Erling Haaland’s goal,” Ancelotti said.

The Italian tactician suggested that his tactical adjustments after the hydration break disrupted Brazil’s rhythm, ultimately allowing Norway to seize control and book a place in the quarter-finals.