Brazil arrived at the World Cup with open wounds.
Since Qatar 2022, the team had four manager changes, 95 players called up, and a political crisis including the ousting of the CBF president.
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The mood among fans was pessimistic.
But then Carlo Ancelotti arrived.
Gradually, the Italian has shaped the team and transformed its relationship with fans, who now dream of a sixth World Cup after 24 years without one.
Ancelotti's Shield
Ancelotti has become a shield for the players.
Even veterans like Alisson, Danilo, Marquinhos, and Casemiro feel at ease with such a great figure on the bench.
Alisson reflected on the internal shift: "It's undeniable that this World Cup cycle has been very difficult for us players.
Since Ancelotti's arrival, the atmosphere has been transformed. He gives us peace of mind."
Marquinhos added: "Our team wasn't in great form, but Ancelotti made necessary changes. He changed our mindset and created a philosophy centred on wellbeing."
Healing On-Field Wounds
The last-32 victory over Japan was another wound Ancelotti healed. Since 2023, Brazil had conceded first in 12 matches, losing seven.
When Japan scored first, Brazil's unease was plain.
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But Ancelotti turned the atmosphere around at half-time. Gabriel Martinelli said: "Ancelotti gave us confidence.
He said we would equalise and win. You can see from his body language how calm he is."
Ancelotti also made bold decisions, leaving Neymar out of the starting XI.
