Carlo Ancelotti has already made history as Brazil's first foreign World Cup coach, but his real challenge is ending a 24-year title wait. The 66-year-old Italian hired a Portuguese teacher and committed to four lessons weekly, even scheduling Saturday sessions at 9am in Vancouver to master the language quickly.

Sunday's 6-2 victory over Panama showcased Brazil's attacking firepower, with Bournemouth's Rayan scoring his first international goal alongside Vinicius Jr, Casemiro, and Lucas Paqueta finding the net. Despite inconsistent results in his first 11 matches, 41% approval rating in a Quaest poll shows growing support for the former Real Madrid manager.

Brazil's last World Cup triumph came in 2002, and the five-time champions have never gone six editions without lifting the trophy. Ancelotti's biggest task remains unlocking the club form of his star players, particularly Vinicius Jr and Raphinha, who have rarely played together in his bold 4-2-4 tactical system.

Initial resistance from Brazilian football figures like Cafu and 1970 World Cup winner Emerson Leao highlighted the cultural taboo of foreign coaches. Yet Ancelotti's adaptability, demonstrated by his insistence on learning Portuguese on his own terms, has already won over players and supporters ahead of the 2026 tournament.