Brazil's World Cup campaign has ended in disappointment, drawing sharp criticism from domestic media directed at manager Carlo Ancelotti and the team's performance. The Selecao were eliminated after a 2-1 defeat against Norway, a result that has extended Brazil's World Cup trophy drought to over two decades.
Norwegian striker Erling Haaland scored twice in the match, securing the victory for his team and advancing them to a quarter-final clash with England. Brazil's lone goal came from Neymar Jr. via a penalty deep into added time, a consolation strike that did little to quell the ensuing media backlash.
Brazilian newspapers have voiced their dismay, with some outlets describing the team's performance as "cowardly" and "shameful." One columnist from UOL criticized Ancelotti's late substitutions, particularly the decision to bring on Neymar Jr. for one of the wingers, stating it "ruined the team" by pandering to popular demand.
The decision to include Neymar Jr. in the squad, despite an injury-hit season with limited club appearances, has also been questioned. Reports highlight that other players, such as Chelsea's Joao Pedro, were omitted entirely. Neymar Jr., playing in what is noted as his 17th and final World Cup match, struggled to make a significant impact in his limited tournament play.
Media outlets reported that the defeat marked Brazil's worst World Cup performance in 36 years, with O Globo headlining "Brazil is eliminated and has its worst World Cup in 36 years." Another Sao Paulo publication ran with "Brazil falls to Norway and suffers eliminations in six consecutive World Cups," while another simply stated, "Brazil sinks."
One journalist reportedly described the team's showing as "Small, Cowardly, Dominated, Ridiculous, Shameful," adding that Neymar's call-up was a "scandal" and that "This Brazil is not the Brazil of the people. It is the Brazil of power. An absolutely despicable and individualistic Brazil."
Despite the mounting criticism and calls for his dismissal, Ancelotti expressed his intention to continue in his role. In his post-match press conference, the manager stated, "We must continue to work and improve and find new ideas," believing the loss represents "the beginning of a new cycle."
He acknowledged the disappointment and sadness but also thanked the squad for the atmosphere created, stating that "Things don't always go our way." Ancelotti also credited the opponent, recognizing Norway and Haaland's impact in the game.
Norway's victory, their first-ever knockout stage appearance in the World Cup, was celebrated by the team. Haaland, who has now scored seven goals in the tournament, expressed his delight, calling it an "insane day" and a moment for Norwegian history.