Ancelotti Fires Back at Critics: 'Only Sir Alex Can Give Me Advice'

Brazil survived a major scare in their final group game, pulling off a stunning comeback against Japan. Trailing for most of the match, the Seleção leveled through Casemiro before Gabriel Martinelli snatched a winner deep into stoppage time. The result booked Brazil's spot in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, where they will face Norway on Sunday. Despite advancing, the team's performance sparked debate. Carlo Ancelotti, in his first stint as a national team coach, drew both praise for the fightback and criticism for the slow start. The five-time Champions League winner did not hold back when responding to doubters in an interview with Folha de S. Paulo. "In Italy they say all men want to be coaches and all women want to be architects. I don't know if I understand football, but nobody can judge me on that. I have prepared for over 1,400 matches. That might not be enough to understand the game, but it's certainly decent experience," the 66-year-old said. Ancelotti made clear whose opinion he values above all: "Only one man has prepared more matches than me — Sir Alex Ferguson, with over 2,000. I take advice from everyone, but the only person who can truly give me advice is Sir Alex. I am 100% sure I am not a genius, but I am also 100% sure I am not a fool." A tough test awaits against Norway. Ancelotti described the Europeans as physically strong, well-organized defensively, and dangerous from set pieces. He singled out Erling Haaland as one of the world's best but stressed that containing the Manchester City forward would require a collective effort rather than man-marking. Star player Neymar, who missed the first two group matches due to injury, is fit to play the full 90 minutes if needed. Ancelotti admitted the forward is frustrated by his lack of minutes but praised his attitude in training. The coach insisted the squad atmosphere remains excellent. Youngster Endrick said Ancelotti has united the group incredibly well. Defender Douglas Santos added: "The coach needs no introduction. We know his record. He gave us calm at halftime, which gave us strength and confidence. Martinelli scored in the last minute — that shows our spirit." The winner of Sunday's Brazil-Norway clash will face the victor of Mexico vs. England in the quarterfinals.