Casemiro believes Brazil are not one of the favourites for the World Cup as "there are other teams a step ahead".

Carlo Ancelotti's side began their final preparations for this summer's tournament with a 6-2 win over Panama at the Maracana, while they face Egypt in their final warm-up game in Cleveland on June 6.

Casemiro, who wore the armband in Marquinhos' absence, was one of four to score and assist against Panama, along with Vinicius Junior, Lucas Paqueta and Igor Thiago.

Rayan and Danilo also got on the scoresheet for Brazil, who have now won six of their 11 games since Ancelotti took charge in May 2025 (D2 L3).

According to the Opta supercomputer, Brazil are sixth favourites to win the 2026 World Cup (6.6%), behind Spain (16.1%), France (13%), England (11.2%), Argentina (10.4) and Portugal (7%).

Casemiro also sees Brazil at a disadvantage in the tournament due to their lack of time with Ancelotti at the helm.

"It's difficult to talk about favourites [for the World Cup]," said Casemiro.

"We will be strong, but there are other teams a step ahead, that already have a consolidated project.

"Ancelotti has recently completed a year, or rather, 40 days on the job. There are other national teams that are further along in this process.

"We will arrive strong, because the ambition and childhood dreams are still in the air."

Brazil start their Group C campaign against Morocco on June 13 before also facing Haiti and Scotland.

The Selecao have won the World Cup more than any other country (five) and have the best win rate in the tournament’s history (67% - 76 wins in 114 matches).

Brazil’s last World Cup triumph came in 2002. Since then, they have gone five consecutive tournaments without lifting the trophy; it is their joint-longest run without winning the tournament along with 1930 – 1954 and 1974 – 1990.