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Brazil part ways with head coach Dorival Junior after a heavy loss, sparking fresh speculation about the team’s next direction.
Brazil have sacked head coach Dorival Junior following a crushing 4-1 defeat to fierce rivals Argentina in World Cup qualifying in a result that proved to be the final straw for the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).
The 62-year-old had only been in charge of the Seleção since January 2024 but failed to win over fans and officials during a turbulent 14-month spell.
Despite Brazil still sitting in fourth place in the South American qualifying table — a spot that secures automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup — a string of underwhelming performances, combined with five losses in 14 qualifiers, ultimately sealed his fate.
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Dorival’s reign started with promise as his debut came in a high-profile friendly against England at Wembley, where Brazil impressed with a 1-0 win in March 2024.
Fo the over 16 matches in charge, Dorival managed seven wins, six draws, and three defeats. But it was the nature of those defeats, particularly the lackluster showing against reigning world champions Argentina, that drew the ire of fans and pundits alike.
"The board wishes him success in his continued career," the CBF said in a brief statement as per BBC.
"From now on, the CBF will work to find a replacement."
Dorival’s dismissal comes as Brazil finds itself in unfamiliar territory. Once the dominant force in South American football, the five-time world champions have struggled for rhythm and identity in recent years.
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Many questioned Dorival’s tactical decisions, particularly his tendency to rely on aging players and his inconsistent squad selections.
Despite a respectable managerial resume — including winning the 2022 Copa Libertadores with Flamengo — Dorival never truly stamped his authority on the national team setup.
"I respect the decision of the federation," Dorival reportedly told Brazilian media after his exit.
"Coaching the national team was an honour, and I leave with my head held high."
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Attention now turns to his successor. According to Brazilian reports, former Flamengo and current Al-Hilal coach Jorge Jesus is the frontrunner to take the job.
The CBF had previously attempted to lure Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti but failed to secure his services before opting for Dorival last year.
However, The Athletic has revealed that Brazil are once again keen to revisit talks with Ancelotti about leading the nation into the 2026 World Cup, a move that would certainly electrify the fan base.
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One thing is certain — the next coach will face immense pressure to restore Brazil's status as the kings of world football.
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