Vinicius Junior Wants Brazil to Be the Dark Horse at the 2026 World Cup, Discard the Favorite Label

JAKARTA - Vinicius Junior said the Brazil National Team (National Team) did not deserve and did not want the label of favorite ahead of the 2026 World Cup this summer.

"I believe that (the Brazilian national team) is not a favorite based on the results we have achieved. However, the burden of this uniform, the burden of the players we have here."

"We will do everything to put Brazil back on top. We don't want to be favorites, we want to put Brazil on top," said the Real Madrid striker.

Brazil are five-time World Cup champions, but their last title was in 2002. Their best achievement since then was fourth place in 2014, when they were hosts.

Since Carlo Ancelotti took over in May last year after leaving Real Madrid, Brazil has had mixed results. The Italian coach led the team to two wins, one draw, and one loss as Brazil finished fifth in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

During the October 2025 international break, Brazil beat South Korea, but surprisingly lost to Japan, before recording a win against Senegal and drawing with Tunisia in November 2025.

Vinicius believes that Ancelotti, who once coached him at Real Madrid, has given the team an edge.

"We just need to find the rhythm of the game. After Ancelotti came, we had a better understanding of how to play. He reduced a lot of pressure on us," said Vinicius.

Perhaps Brazil's hopes at the 2026 World Cup rely most heavily on Vinicius despite him scoring only eight goals in 45 appearances for his country.

However, the 25-year-old has scored 17 goals and eight assists in 43 games for Real Madrid this season. That record at least illustrates that Vinicius is in good form.

"I'm in the happiest moment. Everything I did at Real Madrid, I hope I can do here with the Brazilian national team."

"I don't really pay attention to what people say. I know my job and how much dedication I have to the World Cup."

"This is a place that all players want. Regarding my performance, I always try to perform as well as possible, score goals, and provide assists."

"I imagine everyone wants me to be one of the protagonists. I am ready to face all the challenges in my career. I have already played in the 2026 World Cup, I don't want to lose again," said Vinicius.

Before appearing at the 2026 World Cup, Brazil played two friendly matches on FIFA Matchday in March 2026 as the last test.

Samba's team lost 1-2 to France on March 27, 2026, early in the morning WIB. Brazil will then face Croatia on April 1, 2026 WIB.

Brazil begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Morocco on June 13, 2026. They will also face Scotland and Haiti in Group C.