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Brazil’s opening World Cup match against Morocco unfolded in a manner that felt all too familiar. Since Carlo Ancelotti took charge a year ago, the Selecao have struggled for consistency, and their display in New Jersey was another reminder of that. They managed only a draw, relying on a moment of brilliance from Vinicius Jr to rescue a point. The Italian coach now has much to ponder as he looks to turn things around.

This was the textbook example of an underwhelming start from one of international football’s giants. Vinicius’ skilful strike in the first half cancelled out Ismael Saibari’s cheeky opener, ensuring Brazil escaped with a draw that could easily have been worse.

The worrying part is that Vinicius’ solo moment did not ignite a stronger performance. Brazil struggled to create clear chances, lacked control for large stretches, and wilted under the heat. For a football-obsessed nation desperate for World Cup glory after more than twenty years, another performance like this will not be accepted. With Neymar likely sidelined for the entire group stage due to injury, Ancelotti faces a stern test to restore belief.

Bench Casemiro

In the clash against Morocco, Casemiro looked far from the player who had rediscovered his form at Manchester United under Michael Carrick in the latter part of the 2025-26 season. While not completely past his prime, the 34-year-old struggled to impose himself, showing signs of age with a sluggish display during his 45 minutes on the pitch.

He lost six of his eight ground duels and often failed to track back effectively, particularly against the energetic Ayyoub Bouaddi. His frustrating performance ended with a cynical foul that earned him a yellow card before Ancelotti substituted him at half-time, despite their long-standing connection from their Real Madrid days.

Replace Him with Ederson

Brazil’s squad lacks depth and inspiration in certain areas, and Ancelotti’s decision to replace Casemiro with another veteran, Fabinho, rather than giving Ederson a chance, left many puzzled. The move reflected Brazil’s current transition between generations, with few emerging midfield options ready to take the mantle.

Fabinho, now 32 and playing in Saudi Arabia, struggled to make an impact. Meanwhile, Ederson—set to join Manchester United—was only a late call-up after Wesley’s injury, suggesting he’s low in the pecking order. Yet, if Ancelotti truly wants to usher in a new era, the 26-year-old Atalanta midfielder deserves an opportunity. Brazil’s upcoming match against Haiti could be the ideal platform for him to step up.

Repair the Fragile Defence

Brazil’s central defensive pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes from Arsenal and Marquinhos from Paris Saint-Germain is among the tournament’s strongest. However, injuries and ageing full-backs have weakened the overall backline. Roma’s Wesley’s injury before the tournament further complicated matters.

Roger Ibanez, typically a centre-back, was deployed at right-back against Morocco but struggled badly against Bilal El Khannouss and Noussair Mazraoui. Like Casemiro, he was booked and substituted at half-time. Reports suggest Ancelotti has since tested Ederson in the right-back role during training ahead of the Haiti fixture.

At left-back, Douglas Santos remains steady but, at 32, adds to the ageing defensive unit, which averages 31 years. Danilo, 34, replaced Ibanez, while veteran Alex Sandro, 35, is still part of the squad. Clearly, fresh talent is needed to rejuvenate the back line.

Drop Igor Thiago

Igor Thiago, who dazzled for Brentford last season, found the step up to the World Cup stage too steep. Making his international debut only in March, he struggled to make an impression in what was Brazil’s toughest group-stage match on paper.

His isolation up front mirrored Brazil’s overall disjointed performance. He squandered two clear chances—missing a free header and then shooting straight at the goalkeeper after a promising move. Unsurprisingly, he was substituted soon after and later admitted that nervousness had played a part. Removing him from the starting XI may be wise for the next match.

Turn to Matheus Cunha

Matheus Cunha is likely to return to the starting line-up against Haiti. Given his greater experience with the national team, he might have felt hard done by to start on the bench against Morocco. During his debut season with Manchester United, Cunha proved his pedigree by scoring or assisting in big matches against Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

Coming on as a substitute, it was his precise through ball from deep that led to Brazil’s best second-half opportunity, though Raphinha’s finish let the team down. The 27-year-old’s ability to link play and create space for others makes him a strong candidate to start, possibly even in the No.10 role behind the striker despite wearing the No.9 shirt.

Time for Endrick?

Brazil had potential game-changers sitting idle on the bench, none more notable than Endrick. Many questioned Ancelotti’s reluctance to use the 19-year-old forward, instead opting for Luiz Henrique and Danilo. It was widely felt that Endrick’s inclusion could have changed the game’s outcome.

The idea of pairing Cunha behind Endrick against Haiti is exciting. Legendary striker Ronaldo Nazario also believes the Real Madrid youngster’s moment is close, saying, “I am sure he will get his opportunity. He is ready. He is competing with great players like Matheus Cunha from Manchester United, and Igor Thiago was a top scorer in England, so we are well-served right now.”

Rayan – The Wildcard

While this Brazilian squad may not be vintage, the presence of young talents like Rayan offers hope. The 19-year-old impressed after joining Bournemouth from Vasco da Gama in January, scoring or assisting seven times in just 15 Premier League appearances to earn a late World Cup call-up.

Given his form and versatility, Rayan deserves to be utilised, at least off the bench. The upcoming must-win game against Haiti presents the perfect opportunity for Ancelotti to experiment with Brazil’s next generation.

How Far Can Brazil Go?

Brazil’s campaign is off to a shaky start, and the pressure is already mounting. For Ancelotti, the coming matches will determine whether this team can rediscover its spark—or risk another early exit that would deepen the country’s long wait for World Cup glory.