FIFA mandates a three-minute water break midway through each half at the 2026 World Cup, allowing coaches to use this time for tactical discussions during the match.

Coach Carlo Ancelotti instructs Brazil players during a water break in the round of 16 match against Norway at the 2026 World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA on 5/7. Photo: Reuters

In the second half of the round of 16, Brazil entered the water break with the score at 0-0. However, after the break, the South American team allowed Erling Haaland to score two quick goals, resulting in a 1-2 loss to Norway and their earliest World Cup exit since 1990.

"I think Brazil lost the World Cup during the water break," Ancelotti stated. "I initially thought the team had lost control, but perhaps I was wrong. I made some changes, and then we had problems with Haaland's opening goal. In the World Cup, conceding a goal in the 75th minute makes it very difficult to turn the situation around."

While the score was 0-0, Brazil squandered several chances to take the lead. Bruno Guimaraes missed a penalty in the first half, and Endrick failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity with the goalkeeper in the 60th minute. Despite his disappointment with the result, Ancelotti expressed respect for Norway. The Northern European team reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history, before being eliminated by England with a 1-2 loss in extra time.

Ancelotti aims to change Brazil's reliance on one star player. He emphasizes collective strength, though he still intends to leverage the speed and game-changing abilities of players like Vinicius and Raphinha to build a more direct playing style.

Ancelotti reacts during the loss to Norway. Photo: AFP

As part of this youth movement, Neymar will no longer be in the national team's plans. Ancelotti confirmed that the 34-year-old forward has concluded his journey with the "Selecao", while also praising his professionalism despite injuries significantly impacting his contribution at the World Cup. "Many times in history, one generation ends and another must take its place. The new generation must be better than the previous one," Ancelotti remarked.

The Italian coach also indicated that some veterans over 33, such as Alisson, Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, could still be considered, but Brazil needs to focus on a new cycle with more younger faces. "We must look towards a new cycle and bring new players into the team. This chapter is closing. Of course, we must thank all of them. I have a lot of affection for these players," he said.

Ancelotti views the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics as an important part of Brazil's rebuilding plan. The 67-year-old coach recalled that eight players who won a silver medal with Spain at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics – where they lost to Brazil in the final – are now members of the world champion squad under coach Luis de la Fuente. In contrast, Brazil only included two players from the Tokyo Olympics, Bruno Guimaraes and Matheus Cunha, in their 2026 World Cup squad.

Bruno Guimaraes (8) takes a penalty in Brazil's 1-2 loss to Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA on 5/7. Photo: AP

This disparity reinforces Ancelotti's view on the need for greater investment in U15, U17, and U20 youth teams. From this system, Brazil has already seen talents emerge such as Rayan, Endrick, Estevao, and Vitor Reis, all aiming for the first major goal: the 2028 Copa America.

When asked about world champions Spain, Ancelotti acknowledged that their success came from a special generation of midfielders, including Rodri, Pedri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Gavi. However, the Italian coach stressed that Brazil does not need to copy Spain or France. According to Ancelotti, the crucial aspect is for the "Selecao" to identify areas for improvement. He assessed Brazil's defense and attack as having a good foundation, but identified the midfield as a weakness that needs to be addressed.

Main events of Brazil's loss to Norway in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.

Hong Duy (according to Marca, ESPN)