Brazil forward Raphinha acknowledged the high expectations facing the national team on Wednesday as the squad prepared for their World Cup opener against Morocco while celebrating coach Carlo Ancelotti’s 67th birthday.
The team honored the Italian coach with a traditional guard of honour during training in New Jersey, though Raphinha joked they were gentle with their treatment.
“I don’t think anyone bothered him, he was just allowed to pass through. But we did have a cake,” Raphinha said, describing the birthday celebration.
The Barcelona forward missed out on the cake himself, being told he was late for his press conference and needed to leave immediately.
Raphinha emphasised the weight of representing Brazil, particularly as they seek to end their 24-year wait for a sixth World Cup title.
“We have to understand how important it is to wear the national team shirt,” he said, noting that experienced players fully grasp the responsibility of representing their country.
The forward was candid about the pressure facing the team, acknowledging that Brazil is judged purely on results.
“The Brazilian national team is about results. If we don’t deliver, we’re going to be held accountable,” Raphinha stated.
Ancelotti, who is tasked with guiding Brazil to World Cup glory, brings an impressive coaching pedigree that Raphinha respects from their previous encounters in Spanish football.
The team will face Morocco in their World Cup curtain-raiser on Saturday.
