Coach Carlo Ancelotti assessed the Brazilian national team's growth in the 2026 World Cup during an interview on the eve of their round-of-16 clash against Norway.
Ancelotti gave the interview on Saturday (4) at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford. He highlighted the team's evolution after the initial 1-1 draw against Morocco.
"I think we improved in quality with the ball, especially compared to the first game", the coach said. He assigned rising grades: 5 against Morocco, 6.5 against Haiti, 7 against Scotland and 7.5 against Japan.
With Lucas Paquetá injured, Ancelotti indicated that Martinelli or Danilo Santos could fill the spot. Raphinha, recovered from a thigh injury, will be on the bench against the Norwegians.