Real Madrid stars blamed for Brazil’s World Cup exit

Brazil legend Romário has launched a scathing attack on the national team following its shock elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling for head coach Carlo Ancelotti to be dismissed immediately. 

The former World Cup winner described Brazil’s defeat to Norway as a “fiasco” and insisted the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) should terminate the Italian’s contract despite any financial implications.

Romário reserved some of his strongest criticism for teenage striker Endrick, who missed a golden opportunity to equalise after being set up by Vinícius Júnior during the second half of Brazil’s defeat.

Rejecting suggestions that the 19-year-old’s age should excuse the miss, the former striker argued that players representing Brazil at the World Cup must deliver in decisive moments regardless of their experience. 

While acknowledging Endrick’s immense potential, Romário said the youngster failed to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

The 1994 World Cup winner also questioned Ancelotti’s leadership and claimed the Italian no longer has a future with the Seleção. 

Romário argued that Brazil’s early exit was unacceptable for a nation with the country’s footballing tradition and maintained that the national team requires a fresh direction ahead of the next World Cup cycle. 

He said he would have no hesitation in ending Ancelotti’s tenure immediately.

Vinícius Júnior also came under fire from the Brazilian icon, who criticised the Real Madrid forward for not taking greater responsibility during the match. 

Romário pointed to a first-half penalty taken and missed by Bruno Guimarães, arguing that Vinícius, as Brazil’s leading attacking player, should have demanded the opportunity to take the spot kick instead of deferring to the coaching staff’s designated order.

The outspoken former striker insisted leadership is about making decisive choices in critical moments, suggesting Vinícius should have asserted himself regardless of tactical instructions. 

According to Romário, the team’s biggest star must be prepared to shoulder responsibility during high-pressure situations if Brazil are to compete successfully on the world stage.

Despite the growing criticism from supporters and former players, the Brazilian Football Confederation has yet to make a decision on Ancelotti’s future.