Ronaldo Nazario Archives

Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario has raised concerns over Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical choices after the five-time world champions were held to a 1-1 draw by Morocco in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The former striker, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest forwards, highlighted the decision to deploy Raphinha on the left side of the attack as one of the main issues that affected Brazil’s performance. Speaking during ESPN Brasil’s Resenha da Copa, Ronaldo said he struggled to understand why Ancelotti moved Raphinha away from the right-wing role where he enjoyed a highly productive season with Barcelona. The Brazilian winger had an impressive 2025–26 campaign for the Spanish giants, contributing 21 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions despite missing matches because of a hamstring injury. Although he often started from the left for Barcelona, Ronaldo argued that Raphinha’s effectiveness was greater when operating from the right flank. “There were decisions that were difficult to understand,” Ronaldo said, adding that Brazil looked more comfortable as the match progressed and tactical adjustments were made. Brazil’s Difficult Start Under Ancelotti The result against Morocco marked a challenging beginning for Brazil’s World Cup campaign under Ancelotti, who is leading the national team at the tournament with expectations of delivering a record-extending sixth World Cup trophy. Brazil struggled to find rhythm early in the match, with Ronaldo pointing to the pressure of the opening World Cup fixture as a major factor behind the team’s cautious approach. According to the former Barcelona and Real Madrid forward, several players appeared affected by the occasion, especially those experiencing the intensity of a World Cup for the first time. Ronaldo explained that missed passes and hesitation were signs of the natural tension that comes with football’s biggest international stage. However, after hearing Ancelotti and the players acknowledge the pressure, he said he remained confident about Brazil’s chances. Neymar’s Absence Adds Pressure Brazil entered the tournament without Neymar, their leading international goalscorer, who remains unavailable during the group stage because of injury. His absence has increased the responsibility on other attacking players, including Raphinha, as Brazil search for attacking balance and consistency. The draw means Brazil will need to improve quickly in their remaining group matches if they want to avoid complications and continue their pursuit of another World Cup title. While Ronaldo criticised certain tactical decisions, he also maintained that Brazil’s opening performance should not be viewed as a disaster, insisting that tournament pressure often influences early matches. What Happens Next for Brazil? Ancelotti and his coaching staff will now face questions over possible lineup changes, particularly in attack. The team’s next fixtures will provide a clearer picture of whether the Morocco result was simply opening-game nerves or a sign of deeper tactical problems. For Brazil supporters, the focus will remain on whether Ancelotti can find the right system to maximize his attacking talents and bring out the best from players like Raphinha.