Stopping Haaland no mystery for Brazil, says Ancelotti

Coach Carlo Ancelotti felt Brazil’s comeback win over Japan in the last 32 had given his players greater belief heading into Sunday’s clash with Norway. (EPA Images pic)

EAST RUTHERFORD: Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti said his defenders need no guidance on how to contain Erling Haaland ahead of Sunday’s World Cup last-16 tie with Norway.

Haaland is in the running for the Golden Boot after scoring five goals in three appearances at the tournament and now faces a familiar opponent in Brazil’s Gabriel Magalhaes.

The Manchester City striker and Arsenal centre-back will resume their Premier League rivalry in New Jersey, with a place in the World Cup quarter-finals on the line.

Brazil’s other central defender and captain, Marquinhos, has squared off against Haaland in the Champions League.

“Everyone knows how he works. I have nothing to explain to my defenders about how to play against him. They’ve obviously played against him several times,” said Ancelotti.

“I don’t think that there’s such a thing as an anti-Haaland plan. I don’t need to tell my players how to defend.”

Brazil midfielder Bruno Guimaraes is also well acquainted with Haaland, having faced the Norway star while playing for Newcastle.

He will have a key role to play in disrupting the supply lines to the prolific forward.

That task may become even more important with Lucas Paqueta ruled out through injury, forcing Brazil to reshuffle their midfield.

“We have to avoid the ball getting to his feet,” said Guimaraes. “We do have to attack, but we’ve got to make sure that somebody stays on him, because with one ball, he can decide the match.”

An extreme heat warning is in effect across the region and, while temperatures are forecast to ease on Sunday, the conditions are still expected to play a significant role in the match.

In nearby New York City, the heat index – the apparent temperature when humidity is factored in – stood at 105°F (41°C) in mid-afternoon on Friday, although it was slightly cooler as the teams trained on Saturday.

“I don’t think anybody is used to that temperature,” said Guimaraes.

“This is going to be a very physical match. It’s really important for you to have your squad on point, even the guys that come from the bench to be fresh.”

Raphinha set for cameo role?

Ancelotti felt Brazil’s comeback win over Japan in the last 32 had given his players greater belief heading into Sunday’s clash with Norway.

“We have to play at our best level, but I think we are at a time when we can play at our best level because we’re confident,” said the Italian.

“We’ve come out of a challenging last match against Japan, and we’re prepared for anything that can happen, just as we were for our last match.”

He revealed that Raphinha could be included in the squad, having missed the past two games with a thigh injury.

“Raphinha is making great progress. He’s not at 100%, but he might be on the bench to play a few minutes.

“He’s recovering really well and fast, we’re really happy. Raphinha is a very important player for our team.”

Ancelotti also left the door open to Vinicius Junior and Neymar featuring together against Norway.

Vinicius Junior has led Brazil’s attack with four goals at the World Cup, while all-time record scorer Neymar has made just one brief substitute appearance following a calf injury.

“Yes, Neymar and Vinicius could play together at some point, and I think they will,” said Ancelotti.