Brazil Sack Dorival Junior After 4-1 Defeat to Argentina in World Cup Qualifier

Brazil have parted ways with head coach Dorival Junior following a heavy 4-1 defeat to Argentina in World Cup qualifying.

The loss proved to be the final straw for the 62-year-old, who took charge in January 2024.

Despite Brazil sitting fourth in the South American qualification table—with five defeats in 14 games—the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) decided to make a managerial change.

Dorival’s tenure began with promise, including a 1-0 friendly win over England at Wembley, but his record of seven wins, six draws, and three losses in 16 matches was deemed insufficient.

Following the Argentina defeat, the CBF released a brief statement confirming his dismissal, stating, “The board wishes him success in his continued career. From now on, the CBF will work to find a replacement.”

Dorival, who never represented Brazil as a player, achieved his biggest managerial success with Flamengo, guiding them to the 2022 Copa Libertadores title.

Reports in Brazil suggest that Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus is a frontrunner for the vacant position.

The CBF previously pursued Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti before appointing Dorival and is reportedly interested in reopening talks with him ahead of the 2026 World Cup.