Author: Monojit Mandal
With the long-awaited qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup approaching, all eyes are on the Brazilian national soccer team, which is preparing for a hectic schedule in the coming months. The recent appointment of Fernando Diniz, who also coaches Fluminense, has raised hopes of a new path under his supervision.
Mark your calendar for August 18, when the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) will reveal the long-awaited list of players for the Brazilian national team. The countdown to the team’s action-packed trip will officially begin on September 8, when Brazil host Bolivia. Then, on September 12, the team will face Peru, making for an exciting start to the campaign.
Fernando Diniz, who has been appointed to steer the ship, takes over in the absence of Tite, who resigned as Brazil coach after the team was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the Qatar World Cup by Croatia. While the search for Tite’s replacement continues, Diniz’s temporary tenure carries the weight of public expectations. It should be noted that Diniz will be reconciling his obligations with Fluminense during this period. In addition, it is said that the CBF still hopes to count on the services of Carlo Ancelotti, who currently manages Real Madrid and has a contract until the middle of next year.
Looking back to the last time the squad was announced, on May 28, the Brazilian team saw the then interim coach Ramon Menezes identify 23 players. Emerging talents such as Brazilian full-backs Ayrton Lucas, from Flamengo, and Vanderson, from Monaco, were among the signings made by Menezes. Newcastle’s Joelinton moved into midfield and Fluminense’s Nino into the defensive line. This influx of new blood was intended to reinvigorate the squad.
In retrospect, the Brazilian team’s most recent encounter was on June 20, when they played a friendly against Senegal. Brazil suffered a shock 4-2 defeat to start a difficult period.
The Brazilian national team, led by Fernando Diniz, is at a critical point as the soccer world awaits the August 18 announcement and subsequent battles. Fans, commentators and enthusiasts are preparing for the next chapter in Brazil’s soccer adventure.