Ancelotti invokes Ferguson to silence Brazil critics ahead of Norway last-16 clash

Carlo Ancelotti has invoked Sir Alex Ferguson as the only man qualified to question his football credentials, as Brazil prepare to face Norway in their World Cup last-16 tie in New York on Sunday.

The response came after Brazil’s laboured 2-1 comeback win over Japan in Houston drew a wave of criticism on social media. The five-time world champions fell behind before second-half goals from Casemiro and Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli sealed the victory, but the performance was widely condemned as “stale” and “dangerous” by detractors who questioned whether Ancelotti’s approach could carry Brazil deep into the tournament.

The Italian coach, who has managed more than 1,400 matches across his career, was uncharacteristically pointed when pressed on his ability to handle a talented but inconsistent Brazilian squad. “In Italy, they say that all men want to be coaches and all women architects,” Ancelotti said. “I don’t know if I understand football or not, but no one can judge me on this. The only thing that’s certain is that I’ve prepared for over 1,400 matches. That may not be enough to understand football, but it’s certainly a good amount of experience. Only one person has prepared more matches than me: Alex Ferguson, who has prepared for over 2,000. I take advice from everyone, but the only one who could really be the right person to give me advice is Alex Ferguson.”

He added: “I am one hundred per cent sure I am not a genius, but at the same time, I am one hundred per cent sure I am not a fool.”

The Norway fixture presents a stern physical test. Ståle Solbakken’s side bring Erling Haaland into the last 16 in formidable form — the striker has scored five goals in three games, including a late winner against Ivory Coast, and sits close behind Lionel Messi in the race for the Golden Boot. Ancelotti acknowledged Haaland’s quality, calling him “one of the best players in the world”, while insisting Brazil are not fixated solely on stopping him.

Beyond the tactical challenge Norway pose, Ancelotti is also managing a growing tension within his own squad. Neymar, Brazil’s record goalscorer, has yet to start a game at this World Cup despite returning to full fitness after nearly three seasons sidelined by serious injuries, including a torn ACL. Ancelotti has acknowledged the veteran forward is frustrated by his lack of playing time, though he indicated Neymar has not allowed that frustration to disrupt the squad’s preparations.