World Cup 2026: Ronaldo Criticises Ancelotti Over Raphinha Positioning in Brazil Draw

Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario has criticised manager Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical decision during Brazil’s 1-1 draw against Morocco in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The former striker questioned why Ancelotti deployed Raphinha on the left wing despite the forward’s impressive performances while operating from the right side for Barcelona during the 2025-26 season.

Speaking on ESPN Brasil’s Resenha da Copa, Ronaldo described the decision as difficult to understand, suggesting that Brazil could have benefited more from using the winger in his preferred position.

“Raphinha on the left, when he had an incredible year with Barcelona playing on the right? There were decisions that were difficult to understand, which, in the second half, began to improve,” Ronaldo said.

Raphinha enjoyed a productive campaign with Barcelona, contributing 21 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions despite missing several games because of a hamstring injury.

Although he featured regularly from the left for Barcelona, Ronaldo argued that his effectiveness was greater when positioned on the right flank.

The Brazilian football icon, popularly known as “O Fenômeno”, however, defended the team’s overall performance, attributing their cautious display to the pressure and expectations surrounding a World Cup opening match.

Ronaldo said the nervousness experienced by players, particularly those making their World Cup debuts, was understandable given the importance of the tournament.

He expressed optimism about Brazil’s chances of improving as the competition progresses, adding that the players and coach had acknowledged the impact of first-match pressure.

“I remain very optimistic. I believe it was the pressure of the first game,” Ronaldo said, noting that mistakes and misplaced passes were expected under such circumstances.

Brazil entered the tournament seeking a record-extending sixth World Cup title but began their campaign without star forward Neymar, who remains unavailable during the group stage because of injury.

The draw against Morocco has increased scrutiny on Ancelotti’s tactical choices, with the experienced Italian coach now under pressure to find the right balance as Brazil continue their pursuit of another World Cup triumph.

The national team will be hoping for a stronger performance in their next fixture as they look to build momentum in the tournament.