Brazil’s two-time World Cup winner Cafu said on Monday he believes this year’s tournament is the perfect time for the five-time champions to reclaim the crown for the first time in 24 years.
Cafu was captain when Brazil won its fifth World Cup, beating Germany 2-0 in the 2002 final in Yokohama, Japan.
He was also part of the team that defeated Italy on penalties and won in Pasadena in 1994.
«Twenty-four years after the last title win, I think this is the perfect moment for Brazil,» Cafu told reporters in Madrid, where he is attending the Laureus Awards.
“We have also brought in a serial winner of a coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who will contribute to the greatness of the Brazilian national team.”
Cafu, who played at right back, said Brazil were already strong in midfield and attack, so Ancelotti had focused on strengthening the defense for this year’s tournament in the US, Mexico and Canada.
“Because if Brazil don’t concede goals in a World Cup, they will definitely score a goal per game,” Cafu said.
He said he hoped Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior, a player often embroiled in controversy, would have a strong tournament. He said: “The World Cup is the best way to overcome any kind of controversy.
“In those eight games (if they reach the final), Vinicius Junior has the potential to show the whole world what he is worth and what he can do in football.”
Vinicius provided an assist in the 3–1 win over Croatia in Orlando on April 1, which helped clear doubts after the defeat to France in another friendly.
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Endrick, 19, also shone during the victory in Croatia.
“I think this is a good moment for him,” said Cafu, who believes Real Madrid’s decision to loan the forward to French club Lyon last year was a positive move for the teenager.
«It did him a lot of good. It helped him grow, play, make his mark and become a key player. Obviously at Real Madrid, with so many stars, it is difficult for a young player to become a key player.»
«He is a young player who can contribute a lot to Brazil, and I am sure Ancelotti views him positively,» said Cafu.
Bookmakers have placed Brazil among the top five favorites, with reigning European champions Spain currently leading the way.
Published on April 21, 2026
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