Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti believes his team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign effectively unraveled during the hydration break in their Round of 16 defeat to Norway.
Reflecting on the match, Ancelotti said Brazil were in control until play was paused for the mandatory cooling break. He admitted that he made tactical changes during the stoppage that, in hindsight, proved costly. According to the Italian coach, those adjustments disrupted Brazil’s rhythm and allowed Norway to seize the initiative before going on to eliminate the five-time world champions.
Ancelotti also accepted responsibility for the defeat, acknowledging that he misread the game during the break. Despite the disappointing exit, he reaffirmed his commitment to Brazil and dismissed speculation linking him with the Italy national team, insisting he remains focused on leading Brazil into its next cycle.
Hydration breaks were mandatory throughout the 2026 World Cup because of the summer heat, but they became controversial as many players and coaches argued they frequently disrupted the flow and momentum of matches.
