Cafu: ‘Ancelotti brings serenity and leadership; Brazil can reach the semi-finals’ | OneFootball

Cafu has backed Carlo Ancelotti to restore Brazil’s identity and belief at the 2026 World Cup, drawing on his own experience of winning the tournament twice to explain why the right coach and the right spirit can prove just as decisive as individual talent.

Writing for Gazzetta dello Sport, the former Milan and Brazil legend was unequivocal in his admiration for Ancelotti.

“We are talking about one of the most successful and respected coaches in the history of football,” Cafu wrote.

“His international experience, his ability to manage great players and his composure can be fundamental qualities for a national team that in recent years has shown talent but has often been lacking in decisive moments. Ancelotti brings serenity and leadership. Brazil needs to rediscover confidence and identity, without giving up that creativity which has always characterised our football.”

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – MARCH 26: Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti waves before the international friendly match between Brazil and France at Gillette Stadium on March 26, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Cafu recalls Ronaldinho’s 2002 dance as blueprint for Brazil’s World Cup spirit as Ancelotti prepares to lead charge

To illustrate his point, Cafu reached back to the 2002 World Cup, the tournament he considers the perfect blueprint for what Brazil must recreate.

“Mister Felipe Scolari gathered us together and told us the atmosphere was not right; we needed more joy,” he wrote.

“Ronaldinho did not need to be told twice and started a rhythm that swept us all along. From that moment the group loosened up and we began to live each day with more lightness. That team was very strong, but the difference was also made by unity, smiles and the desire to be together.”

On his prediction for this summer, Cafu was bold.

“I see Brazil among the candidates for the final victory,” he wrote.

“I believe that with Carlo Ancelotti and the potential of our squad, the Seleção has every reason to reach at least the semi-finals. And when Brazil reaches the last four, anything can happen. Because the history of our football teaches one thing: when Brazil rediscovers confidence and team spirit, it becomes a national team nobody wants to face.”