The Brazilian national football team is facing an unprecedented crisis following their unexpected elimination from the 2026 World Cup. The 1-2 defeat against Norway in the Round of 16 not only stripped the team of their chances for the trophy but also became a catalyst for a mass exodus of players around the globe. Instead of unity and a joint return home, the team effectively disintegrated while still in the USA.

An Empty Charter and a Lonely Passenger

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) had prepared logistics in advance for the return of the national team. A spacious charter flight was hired to transport the footballers from New Jersey to Rio de Janeiro. However, following the crushing defeat, the plane departed almost empty.

According to Folha de S.Paulo, the only player from the official 26-man squad to use this flight was Flamengo defender Danilo. The cabin contained only federation officials, staff, the coaching staff, and young goalkeeper Leo Nannetti. It is worth noting that Nannetti trained with the team as the fourth goalkeeper but was not even included in the official tournament roster.

Ancheletti and the Stars: A Route Bypassing Fans

Head coach Carlo Ancelotti decided not to return to Brazil at all. Immediately after the final whistle of the match against the Norwegians, he headed to Canada, where his family owns a private home. This decision, against the backdrop of upcoming protests, appears to be an attempt to avoid a direct clash with public anger.

Star players also chose personal routes to escape the attention of the press and fans:

  • Neymar, along with his family, promptly flew to Orlando.
  • Vinicius Junior went on vacation to the Spanish island of Ibiza.
  • The majority of the other footballers, playing in top European leagues, flew to Europe on their own to prepare for the new season.

An Explosion of Anger at Home

The team's behavior has caused an outcry in Brazil. Disappointed fans have already staged mass protests outside the CBF headquarters, demanding explanations and accountability for the failure. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that Neymar, who previously tearfully announced the end of his international career after the match against Norway, effectively left the country without issuing any comments.

The Brazilian national team will not play their next matches until late September—these will be two friendly games against Australia. However, the main question now is not the calendar, but trust: will Carlo Ancelotti be able to win back the fans' favor and restore the reputation of the national team after such a shameful scattering?