Brazil midfielder Casemiro says the Selecao are not among the favourites for the 2026 World Cup but believes their underdog status could help them challenge for a record sixth title.
Brazil midfielder Casemiro has insisted that his side can benefit from entering the 2026 FIFA World Cup without the burden of being considered the tournament favourites.
Five-time world champions Brazil are aiming to win a record-extending sixth World Cup crown, but many fans currently rank European heavyweights such as Spain, France, and England ahead of them in the race for glory in North America.
Speaking after Brazil arrived in the United States for the tournament, Casemiro acknowledged that the Selecao are not viewed as the leading contenders. However, the veteran midfielder believes that could work to the team’s advantage.
“We aren’t the big favourites,” Casemiro said. “Of course, we’re in good shape and we have a strong squad with a good balance of experienced players and exciting young talent.”
The 34-year-old suggested that being considered a step behind some of their rivals could help keep Brazil focused and motivated throughout the competition. He stressed that the squad is determined to arrive at the tournament in peak condition and make a strong impression.
Casemiro also reflected on what he described as a difficult World Cup cycle for Brazil. The national team has undergone significant changes in recent years, including the appointment of new head coach Carlo Ancelotti and a change in leadership at the Brazilian Football Confederation.
“It has been a difficult cycle with a change of manager, a change of president and a lot of turmoil,” Casemiro explained. “We have only had one year working with the manager, and in reality we’ve spent only around 40 days together on the training pitch.”
Despite those challenges, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder remains optimistic about Brazil’s prospects. He believes the squad possesses the right blend of quality, experience, energy, and youth needed to compete for football’s biggest prize.
Brazil will begin their World Cup campaign in Group C, where they are set to face Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland as they look to take the first steps toward another historic World Cup triumph.
