Cafu Urges Patience After Brazil’s World Cup Exit

Brazil legend Cafu has called for patience and faith in Carlo Ancelotti following the Selecao's disappointing exit from the FIFA World Cup, insisting the five-time champions must trust a new generation rather than look for scapegoats.
Brazil's hopes of winning a sixth World Cup ended with a 2-1 defeat to Norway in the Round of 16 at New York/New Jersey Stadium, where Erling Haaland scored twice. The loss means Brazil's wait for another world title will stretch to at least 2030, extending their trophy drought to 28 years—the longest in the nation's history.
Cafu, who captained Brazil to World Cup glory in 2002 and was also part of the 1994 title-winning squad that ended a 24-year wait, said the pressure on future generations will only increase.
"Absolutely, it will be even greater," Cafu said. "If winning after 24 years in 1994 brought that much pressure, just imagine what it will be like in 2030 after 28 years."
The former right-back was speaking on Monday at Rockefeller Plaza in New York during the unveiling of an 8.47-metre World Cup Trophy sculpture built from more than 1.36 million LEGO bricks.
Despite the disappointment, Cafu insisted Brazil's footballing identity remains intact.
"Brazil is still Brazil," he said. "The quality and potential of Brazilian football should never be questioned because of one disappointing campaign."
He acknowledged that expectations will remain enormous but urged supporters to stay patient with the rebuilding process.

MMR