ANALYSIS: Soccer-Ancelotti gamble leaves Brazil mired in World Cup quicksand

EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey — Brazil's pursuit of a record sixth FIFA World Cup title came to another disappointing end after a 2-1 loss to Norway in the Round of 16 on Sunday, highlighting the significant rebuilding job facing head coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Ancelotti, one of the most successful managers in club football history, was appointed after Brazil spent years trying to secure his services. However, the Italian had limited time to reshape a squad that had experienced years of instability under multiple interim coaches.

Several of Ancelotti's personnel decisions came under scrutiny during the tournament, particularly his reliance on veteran players. Experienced stars Casemiro, Danilo and Neymar struggled to match the pace and intensity of younger opponents as Brazil fell short of expectations.

Norway capitalized on Brazil's vulnerabilities, with substitute Andreas Schjelderup providing the energy that exposed Brazil's defense. Danilo, playing at right back, found it difficult to contain the Norwegian attack, while Casemiro endured another difficult outing in midfield.

Neymar, who entered the match late while managing an injury, scored a stoppage-time penalty but was unable to spark a comeback. The veteran forward showed glimpses of his quality but lacked the explosiveness that once made him one of the world's most dangerous attackers.

The tournament also raised questions about Brazil's long-term direction. Rather than using the competition to give younger players valuable experience ahead of the 2030 World Cup cycle, Brazil leaned heavily on its aging core, leaving uncertainty about the team's transition to a new generation.

The defeat extends Brazil's World Cup title drought to at least 28 years, with its last championship coming in 2002. Throughout the tournament, Vinicius Jr. was among the few players to consistently provide attacking threat, offering hope that the country's next generation can help restore Brazil to the top of world football.

Ancelotti now faces the challenge of rebuilding one of football's most successful national teams as Brazil begins preparations for the next World Cup cycle. -Reporting by Fernando Kallas, editing by Ed Osmond/Reuters