“There Is No Anti-Haaland Plan”: Carlo Ancelotti Reveals How Brazil Plans to Stop Erling Haaland and Norway

Carlo Ancelotti made it clear that Brazil will not create a special plan to stop Erling Haaland. Ahead of the Round of 16 clash against Norway, the Italian manager backed his defenders, praised Norway's attacking talent, and admitted Brazil can still improve.

Brazil will not change its identity because of Haaland

Just hours before Brazil's highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 showdown with Norway, Carlo Ancelotti addressed the biggest threat on the European side: Erling Haaland. Instead of unveiling a tactical blueprint designed specifically to stop the Norwegian striker, the Italian coach made it clear that there is no "anti-Haaland" plan.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Ancelotti explained that his defenders already know Haaland well enough and do not need special instructions on how to mark one of the world's most dangerous forwards.

"There is no anti-Haaland plan," Ancelotti said, placing his confidence in experienced defenders Marquinhos and Gabriel Magalhães, both of whom have faced the Manchester City star numerous times during their club careers.

Haaland is a concern, but Ancelotti insists Norway is much more than one star

Although Erling Haaland enters the knockout stage with five goals in the tournament, Ancelotti refused to simplify Norway's threat to its prolific striker alone.

The Brazilian coach highlighted the quality of Martin Ødegaard, whom he coached during the midfielder's early years at Real Madrid, when the Norwegian was still only 16 years old.

He also praised the attacking abilities of Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa, emphasizing that Norway possesses multiple offensive weapons capable of causing problems throughout the match.

For Ancelotti, the Scandinavian side deserves full respect.

"Norway is a difficult, balanced team with plenty of quality," the Italian said, while also admitting he feels "worried and anxious, as always" before an elimination match.

Brazil believes there is still another level to reach

One of the most revealing moments of Ancelotti's press conference came when he evaluated Brazil's performances throughout the tournament.

Rather than expressing complete satisfaction, the veteran manager admitted that Brazil still has room to improve, both in overall quality and consistency.

With increasingly difficult opponents awaiting, that improvement could prove decisive if the Seleção hopes to reclaim football's biggest prize.

Midfield uncertainty adds another storyline before kickoff

The injury to Lucas Paquetá leaves a vacancy in the starting lineup, although Carlo Ancelotti declined to reveal who will replace him.

Danilo Santos and Gabriel Martinelli have emerged as the leading candidates, with each offering a different tactical profile that could influence the way Brazil approaches the match.

Ancelotti also dismissed the idea that Norway's physical advantage would determine the outcome. Despite acknowledging the height and strength of several Norwegian players, he believes the match will not be decided by physical battles or set pieces alone, but rather by execution, rhythm, and the ability to capitalize on key moments.