Brazil fires coach Dorival Júnior after heavy defeat to Argentina
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has fired head coach Dorival Júnior following the team’s 4-1 loss to Argentina in a World Cup qualifier.
The decision was announced on Friday, three days after Brazil suffered its heaviest-ever defeat in the competition.
In a statement, the CBF confirmed Dorival’s departure, thanking him for his service and stating that the federation will begin the search for a replacement.
Dorival, 62, was appointed in 2023 following Brazil’s quarterfinal exit from the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Under his leadership, Brazil recorded seven wins, seven draws, and two defeats in 16 matches.
The team also struggled in Copa América, exiting in the quarterfinals against Uruguay.
Brazil have lost five of its 14 World Cup qualifying matches, conceding 16 goals, marking it worst defensive record in the competition.
The team are currently fourth in the South American standings, just one point above sixth-placed Colombia, which occupies the final automatic qualification spot.
The CBF has not yet named a successor, but Al Hilal’s Jorge Jesus is considered a leading candidate.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti, previously linked to the job, reiterated on Friday that he remains committed to his current contract.
Brazil resumes it World Cup qualifying campaign in June, facing Ecuador and Paraguay.
