MAKASSAR — Amid his busy schedule welcoming returning Hajj pilgrims at the Makassar Debarkation, the Head of the Regional Office of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for South Sulawesi, Ikbal Ismail, shared his prediction for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Ikbal named the Brazil national team as one of the strongest contenders to win the tournament, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to him, Brazil has always been a powerhouse in world football, consistently producing top-quality players in every generation.

"Since I was six years old, I’ve been a fan of Brazil," Ikbal told Tribun Timur at the Hajj Dormitory in Sudiang, Makassar, on Sunday (7 June 2026).

His belief in the Selecao has grown even stronger since the Brazilian Football Confederation appointed Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti as head coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Ancelotti officially took charge of the Brazil national team in May 2025, becoming the first foreign coach in the team's history.

"God willing, Brazil will be number one. You are the champion," he said confidently.

Brazil is heading into the 2026 World Cup with a star-studded lineup across all positions. In attack, the team features Neymar, Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Endrick.

In defence, Brazil is bolstered by Marquinhos, Bremer, and Gabriel Magalhães, while in goal, the Selecao rely on Alisson Becker and Ederson.

Ikbal believes Brazil’s main strength lies in the balanced quality of players across every department.

"The reason is that most of their players are of high quality and the team doesn’t depend on a single star. Their strength and stamina are also quite evenly distributed," he explained.

"So, if they play cohesively as one unit, I’m confident Brazil can become champions," he added.

Ikbal’s support for Brazil also stems from the country’s status as the most successful nation in World Cup history, with five titles to their name.

With the combination of an experienced coach and a squad full of world-class players, Brazil is seen as having a great chance to reclaim the trophy they last won in the 2002 World Cup.

"I’ve always admired Brazil and I’m certain they will win," Ikbal concluded while raising his fist in enthusiasm.