Brazil’s national football team have set their sights on claiming a record-extending sixth World Cup title at the 2026 tournament.
BOLASPORT.COM – Brazil are targeting their sixth FIFA World Cup trophy in 2026, but this time without the label of being the pre-tournament favourites.
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro openly admitted that his country is not entering the 2026 World Cup in North America as the top contender for the title.
The 34-year-old made this honest statement shortly after the Selecao squad landed at Newark Liberty International Airport in the United States on Tuesday (2 June 2026) early morning local time.
Despite acknowledging that Brazil are not among the favourites, Casemiro emphasised that their main goal remains unchanged — to bring home their sixth World Cup trophy.
Historically, Brazil are the only nation to have participated in every edition of the FIFA World Cup.
They also hold the record as the most successful team in the competition’s history, with five titles to their name.
However, the South American giants have endured a long drought without adding another trophy to their collection.
It has been 24 years since Brazil last lifted the World Cup trophy back in the 2002 edition co-hosted by South Korea and Japan.
According to data from various international betting agencies, Brazil currently sit behind European powerhouses such as Spain, France, and England in the pre-tournament odds.
Responding to those assessments, Casemiro stated that being placed “one step behind” the top European teams could actually work to Brazil’s advantage.
He believes that the reduced external pressure will allow the entire squad to play with greater focus and awareness throughout the tournament.
The veteran midfielder also highlighted that the current squad is in excellent physical condition and ready to deliver major surprises in every match.
“We are not the main favourites,” Casemiro said in an interview published on FIFA’s official website.
“Of course, we are in good shape.”
“We have a strong squad, a great mix of experience and young talent.”
“Maybe this time we’re slightly behind, but we remain alert — and that’s always a good thing.”
“We want to go there in top condition and have a great World Cup,” he added.
Brazil will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign under the leadership of head coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Their opening group stage test will be a tough one — facing North African powerhouse Morocco.
The crucial Group C opener is scheduled to take place on 13 June at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Following that, the Selecao will travel to Pennsylvania to face Haiti on 19 June in Philadelphia for their second group match.
Brazil will then wrap up their group stage journey with a fierce contest against Scotland on 24 June in Miami, Florida.