Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly finalized the tactical framework he plans to use during the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the highly anticipated clash against Morocco. However, a late injury setback has forced the Italian manager to make an important change to his squad.
According to reports relayed by Vietnamese newspaper Dan Tri, citing Brazilian media sources, Ancelotti has settled on an attacking 4-3-3 system as he prepares the Seleção for one of the most competitive World Cup tournaments in history.
The Brazil-Morocco showdown is already generating significant interest among football fans worldwide, with both nations viewed as strong contenders to progress from Group C.
Wesley Ruled Out of the World Cup After Injury Against Egypt
Brazil suffered a major setback ahead of the tournament after defender Wesley sustained an injury during the friendly match against Egypt. The right-back has officially been ruled out of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In response, Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that midfielder Ederson has been called up to replace Wesley in Brazil’s final 26-man squad. While Ederson strengthens Brazil’s midfield options, he is not expected to fill the right-back role, leaving Ancelotti with a decision to make regarding his defensive setup.
The injury has slightly altered Brazil’s preparations, but it has not changed the coach’s intention to deploy an aggressive and possession-based system throughout the group stage.
Ancelotti Sticks With an Attacking 4-3-3 Formation
The former Real Madrid and AC Milan manager is expected to build his team around a combination of experience, creativity, and attacking firepower.
Veteran goalkeeper Alisson Becker is set to start between the posts, while Marquinhos, Léo Pereira, and Douglas Santos are expected to form the core of the defensive line. The identity of Brazil’s starting right-back remains uncertain following Wesley’s withdrawal.
Brazil’s Updated Expected Starting Lineup vs Morocco
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Alisson Becker |
| Right Back | To Be Confirmed |
| Centre Back | Marquinhos |
| Centre Back | Léo Pereira |
| Left Back | Douglas Santos |
| Defensive Midfielder | Casemiro |
| Central Midfielder | Bruno Guimarães |
| Attacking Midfielder | Lucas Paquetá |
| Right Wing | Raphinha |
| Striker | Igor Thiago |
| Left Wing | Vinícius Júnior |
Neymar Expected to Miss the Starting XI
One of the biggest talking points surrounding Brazil’s preparations remains the absence of Neymar from the projected starting lineup.
Reports indicate that the Brazilian superstar is currently recovering from a minor injury and is following a rehabilitation program designed to ensure he reaches peak condition for the knockout rounds.
The coaching staff reportedly believes that preserving Neymar’s fitness for the decisive stages of the competition is more important than risking him during the group phase.
Brazil and Morocco Headline Group C
Brazil and Morocco are widely considered the favorites to advance from Group C, which also includes Scotland and Haiti.
The encounter between the Seleção and the Atlas Lions is expected to be one of the standout matches of the group stage, with Morocco aiming to build on its remarkable rise in world football and Brazil seeking to reclaim the FIFA World Cup trophy under Carlo Ancelotti.
For Moroccan supporters, the match represents another opportunity for the Atlas Lions to test themselves against one of football’s most successful nations. For Brazil, it could provide an early indication of their championship credentials.
Key Takeaways
- Carlo Ancelotti is expected to use a 4-3-3 attacking formation during the World Cup group stage.
- Wesley has been ruled out of the tournament after suffering an injury against Egypt.
- Ederson has been called up to replace Wesley in Brazil’s final 26-man squad.
- Alisson, Marquinhos, Casemiro, Vinícius Júnior, and Raphinha remain among the projected starters.
- Neymar is reportedly being preserved for the knockout rounds.
- Brazil and Morocco are considered the strongest teams in Group C.
- The Brazil vs Morocco clash is one of the most anticipated matches of the opening phase of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
