KUALA LUMPUR – Brazil legend Romario has called for Carlo Ancelotti to be sacked immediately, describing Brazil’s shock exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup to Norway as a national humiliation that cannot be tolerated.
The 1994 World Cup winner said the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) should terminate Ancelotti’s contract after the five-time champions crashed out in the Round of 16 following a stunning 2-1 defeat to Norway, with Erling Haaland scoring both goals.
The result sparked outrage across Brazil, with supporters demanding sweeping changes, while Romario became the highest-profile figure to publicly call for Ancelotti’s dismissal.
According to Brazilian media outlet Liberta Depre, Romario launched a scathing attack on the veteran Italian coach.
“There is no justification for Ancelotti to remain as head coach of the Brazilian national team after a failure of this magnitude.
“Losing to Norway in this manner was embarrassing for Brazil and for everyone who cares about our football.
“A team with our history and quality should never be eliminated like this. If it were my decision, I would terminate his contract today and let him take the matter to court if he wished.”
Romario had been seen embracing Ancelotti before kick-off on Monday, but his tone changed dramatically after the final whistle as he questioned the direction of the national team under the former Real Madrid manager.
The Brazilian great also criticised teenage striker Endrick for missing a clear one-on-one opportunity that could have altered the outcome.
“I like Endrick very much and I believe he will bring Brazil a great deal of joy in the future.
“But against Norway, he had a poor game. People keep saying he is young, but when you have a clear chance in a World Cup knockout match, you have to score.
“Whether you are young, middle-aged or experienced does not matter. At this level, opportunities like that cannot be wasted.”
Despite the growing criticism, Ancelotti is expected to remain in charge after reportedly agreeing to a contract extension that will keep him with Brazil until 2030.
Brazil national team coordinator Rodrigo Caetano also reiterated the federation’s backing for the 67-year-old coach.
“Carlo continues to have our full trust.
“We understand the disappointment surrounding the elimination, but our commitment is to a broader process and a long-term vision for Brazilian football.”
Ancelotti is widely regarded as one of football’s greatest managers, having won league titles in all five of Europe’s top leagues and lifted the UEFA Champions League five times during his illustrious career.
However, Brazil’s unexpected defeat to Norway has intensified scrutiny of the veteran coach, with former players, pundits and supporters questioning whether the CBF should continue with the current project ahead of the next World Cup cycle.
For a nation that measures success by World Cup triumphs, the Round of 16 exit has been viewed not merely as a disappointment but as a significant blow to the prestige of Brazilian football. – July 9, 2026