SportsTrending
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is rebuilding the national team after its World Cup exit, calling up 15 players under 23 and handing the captaincy to Raphinha ahead of Saturday's friendly against Japan in Singapore.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti is rebuilding the national team after its World Cup exit, calling up 15 players under 23 and handing the captaincy to Raphinha ahead of Saturday's friendly against Japan in Singapore.
Brazil was eliminated in the round of 16 of the World Cup by Norway. Ancelotti said the tournament closed a cycle for a generation of players and that the team is now building a new generation to be focused and competitive for upcoming official competitions, including the Copa America in 2028 and the World Cup in 2030.
For the match against Japan, Ancelotti called up 15 players under 23 in a squad of 26. He said he is observing young players and is satisfied with their quality and talent, though he noted they may lack some experience.
Raphinha, the 29-year-old Barcelona forward, will wear the captain's armband against Japan. Regular skipper Marquinhos is out with a muscular injury. Ancelotti chose Raphinha ahead of Vinicius Jr and Bruno Guimaraes. Guimaraes is next in line to captain the side when Raphinha is off the pitch.
Raphinha will also wear the number 10 shirt. He said playing against Japan is like a World Cup match and described it as a difficult, complicated game that is a good test against a great team.
Brazil and Japan meet on Saturday, November 14, at the National Stadium in Singapore. Kickoff is at 11:15 French time. Brazil will then play Singapore on Tuesday, November 17, at the same venue.
Japan is seeking revenge for its 2-1 loss to Brazil in the World Cup round of 32 in June. Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu is in the final two games of his eight-year tenure and will oversee his last match against Paraguay on Tuesday before handing over to under-23 coach Go Oiwa.
The friendly marks Brazil's first step in a generational rebuild after its World Cup elimination, with a young squad and a new captain leading the team in Singapore.
Sources
This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.
The day's checked news, by email
One short email a day with the top stories. Free, and you can unsubscribe in one click.
Or follow for the latest news:
No comments yet. Start the discussion.
Colorado defeated No. 14 Houston 42-32 at home, ending the Cougars' College Football Playoff hopes. It was Colorado's first win over a top-15 opponent since 2007.
SportsTrending
Nigel Clough surpasses Ian Greaves as Mansfield Town's longest-serving manager after six years in charge, marking a milestone in English football management.
