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Brazil Coach Predicts Brazil Vs Italy Final, Warns Of African Surprise Packages.
According to Nivo News, legendary Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti has tipped Senegal and Morocco as strong contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing both African sides as “strong and doing great.”....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The former Real Madrid manager, now in charge of Brazil, will today lead the five-time world champions against Senegal in a high-profile international friendly at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium. Brazil and Senegal have faced each other twice in friendlies, with the Brazilians yet to secure a win. Their first meeting ended in a 1-1 draw in October 2019, while Senegal triumphed 4-2 in June 2023.
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Ancelotti said neither Senegal nor Morocco should be considered outsiders at next year’s tournament in North America. He also predicted a potential Brazil versus Italy final. Though Italy is still battling to qualify, Ancelotti expressed confidence that Gennaro Gattuso’s side would navigate the European Play-Offs successfully.
“They’ll have to fight again through the playoffs, which is always complicated. I hope they qualify; they must qualify. Honestly, I think they will,” Ancelotti said. “Then, we’ll meet in the final, and everyone will be happy. Italians, Brazilians and me especially. Emotionally, it would be wonderful.”
Pressed on favorites for the tournament, Ancelotti mentioned the usual top sides—France, Spain, England, Germany, Argentina, and Portugal—but warned of surprises with the expanded 48-team format. “Tomorrow we play Senegal, who beat England 3-1. They’re very strong. Same for Morocco, they’re doing great. You have to be ready and prepared,” he added.
The Italian coach, a five-time Champions League winner, also addressed Brazilian expectations, noting that fans primarily want World Cup success rather than just attractive football. “Brazilians want to see the national team win the World Cup. Of course, playing well helps, but in 1994 and 2002, they had great forwards yet won thanks to a very solid defence. I think it will be the same in the next World Cup,” he explained.
Ancelotti concluded by highlighting Brazil’s mix of experienced players and talented youngsters, stating that the nation’s passion and desire for a sixth title will drive their campaign.
Unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has backed Anthony Joshua to overcome Tyson Fury if their long-anticipated all-British clash eventually takes place.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Talks between both fighters’ camps have reportedly resumed after previous attempts to finalise the bout collapsed over the years. Usyk, who has faced—and defeated—both heavyweights twice, said his recent time training alongside Joshua has strengthened his belief in the Briton’s readiness.
Joshua has been working in Spain with Usyk as part of his recovery and return to full fitness following a December car accident, after which he sustained minor injuries but has since resumed structured training.
Speaking to The Independent, Usyk praised Joshua’s commitment in camp, describing him as highly focused and determined.
He also called for continued support for Joshua during a difficult phase in his career, urging fans not to turn against fighters during setbacks, but to stand by them as part of the sport.
Usyk acknowledged that Joshua is nearing a full return but stressed the need for patience as he continues recovery.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn suggested the former world champion is likely to take at least one more fight before a possible showdown with Fury, adding that his current training setup has been beneficial for his focus and preparation.
Usyk himself is preparing for his own upcoming bout scheduled for May 23 in Egypt, where he will face kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven.
Iran says it has reasserted control over the Strait of Hormuz just hours after briefly reopening the key shipping route, which carries about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Real Madrid reportedly believe their Champions League exit may have been influenced by UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin, intensifying long-standing tensions with European football’s governing body.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The controversy centres on Eduardo Camavinga’s late red card in the 87th minute of the second leg in Munich after a second yellow for time-wasting, a decision that ended Madrid’s hopes of a record 16th title.
The match was officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić, whose appointment and decisions during the tie have since drawn scrutiny within the Spanish club.
Tensions between Real Madrid and UEFA have remained high since the Super League controversy, and while relations were thought to have improved earlier this year, the latest defeat has reignited old suspicions.
Vinčić, who has handled several major European fixtures in recent seasons, including Champions League and Europa League finals, is now at the centre of renewed debate over officiating standards.
Reports suggest that some figures within the club view the situation as a possible continuation of unresolved tensions linked to the Super League fallout.
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