Dorival Junior (Photo: @CBF_Futebol on X)

The Confederation of Brazilian Football (CBF) announced on Friday the dismissal of Dorival Junior from his position as Brazil‘s head coach in the aftermath of Brazil’s devastating 4-1 loss to their fierce rivals Argentina in the FIFA World Cup qualifying match three days earlier.
The five-time World Cup champions Brazil currently occupy fourth position in the South American qualifying standings, trailing Argentina, the reigning world champions, by 10 points and also behind Ecuador and Uruguay. Argentina secured their qualification for the World Cup by beating Brazil.
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South American teams have six automatic qualification spots available for the World Cup.
“Dorival Junior is no longer in charge of the Brazilian national team. The management thanks him and wishes him success for the rest of his career,” the CBF said in a statement.
Dorival, aged 62, took over the managerial role in January 2024, replacing interim coach Fernando Diniz. However, his tenure has been marked by underwhelming performances in the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches for the tournament to be held across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Brazil’s upcoming qualifying fixtures include an away match against Ecuador and a home game against Paraguay, scheduled for June 4 and June 9, respectively.
“Nobody expected what we saw today (against Argentina), and the responsibility is entirely mine,” the Brazil coach had said after the crushing defeat.
Dorival assumed leadership of the Selecao following his successful tenure securing championships with Flamengo and Sao Paulo.
Brazilian press reports suggest that Ancelotti remains a candidate to replace Dorival, alongside Portuguese tactician Jorge Jesus, who presently manages Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
Another Portuguese coach, Abel Ferreira, who achieved multiple championships with Brazilian side Palmeiras, is also considered a potential candidate for the position.
Ancelotti, however, is confident of completing the term of his contract in Madrid which runs until June 2026.
The incoming manager’s primary responsibility will be to revive Brazil’s distinctive playing approach and secure their first championship since claiming the Copa America in 2019.