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Alisson Becker for Brasil under en vennskapskamp mot Østerrike 10. juni 2018. Av Granada. Lisens: CC BY SA 4.0
Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker believes the doubts surrounding the Seleção ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 could ultimately work in the team’s favor as they prepare to face Morocco in their opening match of the tournament.
The Liverpool star spoke to reporters at Brazil’s training base in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, where Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has been preparing for its World Cup debut against the Atlas Lions on June 13.
Despite Brazil entering the tournament as one of the favorites, questions continue to surround the five-time world champions following inconsistent performances in recent years and a 24-year wait for another World Cup title.
Alisson: Doubts Can Be a Positive Sign for Brazil
Speaking ahead of the highly anticipated clash against Morocco, Alisson suggested that skepticism from fans and media has often preceded success for Brazil.
The experienced goalkeeper pointed to previous World Cup-winning generations that also entered major tournaments facing criticism and uncertainty.
“It’s good that the national team arrives with some doubts because it has happened before. This team has different characteristics compared to previous generations,” Alisson explained.
According to the Liverpool goalkeeper, what matters most is not public perception but how the players continue to develop collectively under Carlo Ancelotti.
“The most important thing is how we face this situation now, what we feel now, and what we are becoming as a team. We hope that translates into a good result against Morocco.”
Carlo Ancelotti’s Influence on the Seleção
Alisson also praised head coach Carlo Ancelotti, who is preparing for his first FIFA World Cup as Brazil manager.
Since taking charge of the Seleção, the Italian coach has focused on restoring stability and confidence within the squad.
“Since Ancelotti arrived, the atmosphere has changed. He has a very strong presence and does not focus on controversies,” Alisson said.
Brazilian supporters hope Ancelotti can guide the national team back to the top of world football after several disappointing World Cup campaigns since their triumph in 2002.
Brazil Seeking a Sixth World Cup Title
Brazil enters the FIFA World Cup 2026 aiming to win a record-extending sixth world title.
However, the road to the tournament has not been smooth.
The Seleção finished fifth in the South American qualifiers, their lowest position since the current qualification format was introduced for the 1998 World Cup.
The campaign included several disappointing results, notably a historic home defeat against Argentina at the Maracanã Stadium in 2023, ending Brazil’s long unbeaten record at home in World Cup qualifying matches.
Despite those setbacks, history offers encouragement for Brazilian supporters.
Brazil also faced turbulent qualification campaigns before lifting the World Cup trophy in both 1994 and 2002.
Defensive Concerns Ahead of Morocco Match
One of the biggest concerns for Brazil before facing Morocco remains its defensive record.
The Seleção conceded six goals across four warm-up matches leading into the tournament, raising questions about defensive organization.
Alisson is widely expected to start in goal against the Atlas Lions as Brazil looks to begin its World Cup campaign with a strong performance.
The Liverpool goalkeeper will rely on his vast international experience as he prepares for another major tournament.
Neymar Injury Clouds Brazil’s Preparations
Brazil could begin its World Cup journey without superstar Neymar, who continues to recover from a calf injury.
The veteran forward has not yet fully resumed training with the squad, leaving uncertainty regarding his availability for the opening stages of the competition.
His absence would place additional responsibility on Brazil’s younger attacking players to deliver against strong opponents such as Morocco.
Alisson Equals Brazilian Goalkeeping Legends
The FIFA World Cup 2026 marks Alisson’s third appearance at football’s biggest tournament.
By reaching this milestone, he joins legendary Brazilian goalkeepers Taffarel and Gilmar among the few Brazilian keepers to participate in three World Cups.
Taffarel represented Brazil in 1990, 1994 and 1998, while Gilmar appeared in the 1958, 1962 and 1966 tournaments.
Alisson now hopes to add his name to Brazilian football history by helping lead the Seleção to another World Cup triumph.
Morocco vs Brazil: One of the Most Anticipated Matches of the Group Stage
The opening Group C encounter between Morocco and Brazil is widely considered one of the standout fixtures of the first round of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Morocco arrives as reigning African champions and one of the most respected national teams in world football following its historic semi-final run at Qatar 2022.
Brazil, meanwhile, remains one of the tournament favorites despite entering the competition under greater scrutiny than usual.
The clash at MetLife Stadium could provide an early indication of whether either nation is capable of mounting a serious challenge for the World Cup title.
