Ancelotti confident ‘Italy will qualify for World Cup’, but names two possible surprises

Ancelotti expects Italy to reach the 2026 World Cup and dreams of meeting Brazil in the final. Betting angle: Brazil under Ancelotti looks like a strong outright candidate — punters may favor Brazil to reach the final or back them in outrights and finishing-position markets, while Italy’s likely playoff route suggests cautious outright stakes on the Azzurri.

Ancelotti Predicts Italy Will Qualify, Hopes for Brazil–Italy Final

Carlo Ancelotti has voiced confidence that Italy will still qualify for the 2026 World Cup, despite a likely playoff route, and admitted he would be “emotionally” thrilled to face the Azzurri in the final. “They’ll have to fight again through the playoffs, which is always complicated. I hope they qualify; they must qualify. Honestly, I think they will,” Ancelotti said. “Then, we’ll meet in the final, and everyone will be happy. Italians, Brazilians and me especially.”

Ancelotti’s Priorities as Brazil Coach

Ancelotti insists he feels “more passion than pressure” in his role as Brazil coach, praising the intense love of football in the country and the harmonious atmosphere inside the camp. The veteran tactician highlighted the mix of high-level veterans and talented youngsters, saying the squad combines experience and youth with strong discipline and camaraderie.

Team Atmosphere and Leadership

Ancelotti described a relaxed but disciplined camp where players bond off the field — playing cards, limiting phone use, and letting veterans guide younger players. He compared the feeling to his earlier days in club football, underlining the importance of a unified culture and mutual leadership.

World Cup Contenders and Tournament Shape

When asked about favorites, Ancelotti listed the usual suspects: France, Spain, England, Germany, Argentina and Portugal. He warned, however, that a 48-team format guarantees surprises and pointed to strong African teams such as Senegal and Morocco as threats. “You have to be ready and prepared,” he said, noting that playing across three host countries will make venue geography a crucial factor.

On Playing Style vs. Winning

Ancelotti downplayed the idea that Brazil must be spectacular to satisfy fans, arguing that winning remains the ultimate demand. He referenced past World Cup winners who combined strong strike forces with solid defensive foundations and signaled a pragmatic approach for Brazil’s push toward a sixth title.

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Betting Implications and Predictions

For punters, the interview strengthens Brazil’s narrative as a serious contender under an experienced coach, supporting markets that favor Brazil to reach the latter stages or to win outright. Italy’s likely playoff path suggests higher variance for bettors — consider cautious outright stakes on Italy and explore matchup specials or futures that reflect the increased uncertainty of a playoff route. Also monitor draw and venue factors closely, as geography could influence match outcomes in the three-country format.

Carlo Ancelotti is confident that Italy will qualify for the 2026 World Cup and hopefully...

Football Italia