Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has admitted that one of his biggest coaching decisions during the 2026 FIFA World Cup may have contributed to the Selecao’s early elimination from the tournament.

Speaking about Brazil’s disappointing Round of 16 defeat to Norway, the experienced Italian manager revealed that he misjudged the flow of the match during a scheduled hydration break.

According to Ancelotti, he believed his players had started losing control, prompting him to make tactical changes that ultimately disrupted the team’s balance.

The substitutions and adjustments, he explained, altered Brazil’s rhythm instead of strengthening it. Norway took advantage of the situation, with striker Erling Haaland proving decisive as his side capitalized on the defensive uncertainty to secure victory and knock the five-time world champions out of the competition.

Ancelotti acknowledged that, in hindsight, the team had been performing better than he initially thought before the break.

He described the decision as one of the most difficult moments of his coaching career and accepted responsibility for the outcome.

Looking beyond the setback, the Brazilian coach insisted the national team will not attempt to imitate the playing styles of recent international powerhouses such as Spain or France.

Instead, he believes Brazil must develop its own identity while improving key areas of the squad.

The former Real Madrid boss highlighted midfield as a department requiring further development and suggested that upcoming youth competitions, including the Olympic Games, could help identify the next generation of talent capable of strengthening the national team as Brazil begins preparations for future international tournaments.