Cafu: Brazil Ready to Reclaim World Cup Crown in 2026

Cafu says World Cup can help Vinicius Junior ‘overcome any controversy’

Cafu believes Brazil will end 24-year wait at 2026 World Cup. Says Vinicius can ‘overcome controversy’ and Endrick is in good form.

2002 World Cup-winning captain Cafu says Brazil can reclaim crown in 2026. Backs Vinicius Junior, calls Endrick loan to Lyon positive...

Two-time World Cup winner Cafu said Monday that the 2026 tournament is the perfect time for Brazil to reclaim the title for the first time in 24 years.

  

Cafu captained Brazil to its fifth World Cup, a 2-0 win over Germany in the 2002 final in Yokohama.

 

He also played in the Brazil team that beat Italy on penalties to win the 1994 final in Pasadena.

“Twenty-four years after the last title win, I think it's the perfect moment for Brazil,” Cafu told reporters in Madrid, where he is attending the Laureus Awards.

“We've also brought in a serial winner of a coach, Carlo Ancelotti, who will add to the greatness of the Brazilian national team.”

Cafu, a former right-back, said Brazil was already strong in midfield and attack. He noted that Ancelotti had focused on improving the defence ahead of this year’s tournament in the US, Mexico and Canada.

“Because if Brazil doesn't concede goals in a World Cup, they're sure to score a goal per game,” Cafu said.

He said he hoped Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior would have a strong tournament. Cafu added of the player, who is often involved in controversy: “The World Cup is the best way to overcome any kind of controversy.”

“In those eight matches (if they reach the final), Vinícius Junior has the potential to show the whole world his worth and what he can do in terms of football.”

Vinicius recorded an assist in the 3-1 win over Croatia in Orlando on April 1, helping ease concerns after the friendly loss to France.

Cafu, Cafu! 👋

Arriving at the Laureus World Sports Awards and enjoying time with young fans in the KIA Fan Zone.#Laureus26 | @officialcafu pic.twitter.com/5QhsbMUadV

— Laureus (@LaureusSport) April 20, 2026

Endrick, 19, also impressed in the Croatia victory.

“I think it's a good time for him,” Cafu said. He added that Real Madrid's decision to loan the forward to French club Lyon last year had been a positive move for the teenager.

“It did him a lot of good. It helped him grow, play, make his mark, and become a key player. It's obvious that at Real Madrid, with so many stars, it's difficult for a young player to become a key player.

“He's a young player who can contribute a lot to Brazil, and I'm sure Ancelotti is looking at him favourably,” added Cafu.