Cafu, Brazil's pentacampeonato captain, stated in Madrid on Monday (20th) that Brazil is ready to win the 2026 World Cup, 24 years after the last title. He praised coach Carlo Ancelotti and predicted stellar performances from Endrick and Vinícius Júnior at the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The comments came while serving as ambassador for the Laureus Awards.
Cafu gave an interview to the press in Madrid, where he served as ambassador for the Laureus World Sports Awards, presented on April 20. "Twenty-four years after winning our last title, I believe this is the exact moment for Brazil," said the former right-back, winner of the 1994 and 2002 World Cups.
He pointed to the strength of Brazil's midfield and attack, with Ancelotti working to make the defense "impenetrable." "We have also brought a multi-champion coach who will contribute to the greatness of the Brazilian national team," he stated. Cafu predicted: "Because if Brazil doesn't concede goals in a World Cup, it will certainly score at least one per match."
On the young stars, Cafu saw a "good moment" for Endrick, whose loan to Lyon helped him gain prominence. "He is a young player who has a lot to offer Brazil, and I'm sure Ancelotti sees him favorably," he said. Vinícius Júnior, with an assist in the 3-1 win over Croatia on April 1 in Orlando, has a chance to shine in the "eight matches" to a possible final.
Cafu views Brazil as "more experienced" and well-led by Ancelotti, despite challenges. Among the toughest rivals, he listed Spain, Portugal, England, Germany, Argentina (title defenders), and the Netherlands.
