SAMARINDA – The 2026 FIFA World Cup is currently entering its group stage phase.

Ardiansyah Rachman, the assistant coach of Borneo FC U16, expressed strong confidence that the Brazilian national team, known as the Samba Boys, will triumph at the 2026 World Cup, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“My choice has always been Brazil. The reason is that I have admired them since I was in elementary school. Back then, Brazil had legendary striker Ronaldo Nazário, and now they also have Rafinha from Barcelona. Since I am a Barcelona fan, that makes me support Brazil even more,” said Ardiansyah Rachman, the former Persisam player, on Sunday (14 June 2026).

“This current squad looks very promising. Especially with Neymar Jr still in the lineup, Brazil’s attacking front will be even more dangerous,” added the man affectionately known as Chris John.

Ardiansyah also commented on the decision to host the World Cup across three nations, saying he believes it is the right move.

“In my opinion, it’s a good decision. Having three host countries makes sense because there are many participating teams, and the tournament lasts quite long,” he explained.

Brazil is currently managed by Carlo Ancelotti, a coach with an impressive track record of managing top clubs in Italy such as AC Milan and Napoli, as well as in Spain with Real Madrid, and in England with Chelsea and Everton.

“I completely support Coach Carlo Ancelotti. With his vast experience and history of guiding several clubs to Champions League titles, hopefully, he can lead Brazil to win the World Cup this year,” Ardiansyah said.

He also shared that he still owns a Brazil jersey from the 2014 World Cup, although he hasn’t managed to get the latest one yet. “I have the Brazil jersey from the 2014 World Cup, but I haven’t got the new one yet,” he mentioned.

As for how he plans to enjoy the matches, Ardiansyah prefers to watch the 2026 World Cup with his friends.

“I usually watch the matches together with my friends. Most of the time, we just watch at home,” he concluded.