Casemiro: Brazil's Underdog Status Could Be a Secret Weapon at World Cup

The Selecão may not be the bookies' darlings this time around, but Casemiro reckons that's precisely where Brazil want to be heading into next week's World Cup.

With Spain, France, and England all priced ahead of them by the oddsmakers, the five-time champions have touched down in North America with a different narrative than usual. For a nation accustomed to carrying the weight of expectation, this shift in perception could prove liberating.

"We aren't the big favourites," the 34-year-old midfielder explained to FIFA's official channels after arriving in the U.S. on Tuesday. "We're in good shape, we've got a strong squad—a nice blend of seasoned players and exciting young talent."

"Maybe we're a step behind this time, but that keeps us sharp. That's always useful. We're heading there in peak condition and we want to put on a great show."

Casemiro acknowledged the turbulent build-up to the tournament, which saw the Brazilian Football Confederation install Carlo Ancelotti as manager and appoint a new president last year. That upheaval has left its mark on preparations, though the midfielder remains optimistic about what's to come.

"It's been a bumpy road with a managerial change, a new president in place, and plenty of disruption," he said. "We've only had a year with the manager, who brings tremendous pedigree, but honestly, we've only trained together for around 40 days. Still, I reckon we'll arrive at the tournament in strong shape."

The squad boasts the kind of depth that could trouble anyone: established names alongside hungry prospects, physicality paired with technical ability. Brazil's Group C assignment—Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland—sets up an intriguing opening chapter for Ancelotti's tenure.

The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19 across North America.