Brazil legend criticises Vinicius, Ancelotti after World Cup exit: ‘Never looked like the player we’ve seen dominate’ | OneFootball

Brazil’s World Cup dream came to a crushing end in the Round of 16, with Erling Haaland’s brilliance inspiring Norway to a memorable victory over the five-time champions.

The elimination has been met with fierce criticism back in Brazil, and among those to speak out was club icon and former striker Ronaldo Nazario, who did not hold back in his assessment.

The former Real Madrid superstar talked about many of the Brazilian stars, including Vinicius Jr. and Endrick, while directing much of the blame on Carlo Ancelotti.

What Ronaldo said after Brazil defeat

Ronaldo started by questioning several of Ancelotti’s key decisions.

Ronaldo believes Ancelotti got exposed after Norway defeat. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

“I have to be honest, I think this elimination starts with the decisions made on the bench. Carlo Ancelotti is one of the best coaches in the history of football, but tonight he made too many mistakes,” he said (h/t AS).

He was particularly baffled by the lack of attacking alternatives and Ancelotti’s reluctance to use Endrick, the Real Madrid forward who is returning from a loan spell at Lyon.

“Then you look at Endrick. Every time he came into this tournament, he brought energy, aggression, and unpredictability. Yet he spent most of the World Cup sitting on the bench. I don’t understand that,” he added.

Ronaldo says Vinicius hasn’t had a good World Cup

Ronaldo went on to talk about Vinicius Jr, insisting the Real Madrid winger must take his share of responsibility for what he calls a subdued individual campaign.

Ronaldo believes Vinicius Jr. didn’t have a good World Cup. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

“Vinicius Junior also has to take responsibility. We all know how talented he is, but this hasn’t been a good World Cup for him. He never looked like the player we’ve seen dominate in club football,” Ronaldo said.

This is despite the fact that Vinicius was Brazil’s most impactful player, being involved in at least five goals this tournament.

The former striker was clear that Brazil’s biggest names failed to deliver when it mattered most, while also giving credit to their opponents.

“When Brazil needed its biggest stars, they never really imposed themselves in the tournament. Norway deserved their victory, let’s be clear about that. They were organised and disciplined, and Haaland punished every mistake.

“But Brazil helped Norway by making poor decisions before the match even started. At this level, one or two mistakes can end your World Cup. Tonight there were too many,” he concluded.