The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has sacked head coach Dorival Júnior after the Seleção suffered a crushing 4-1 defeat to Argentina in Buenos Aires a result that marks Brazil’s worst loss in World Cup qualifying history.

Dorival’s dismissal comes just over a year after his appointment in January 2024. His tenure was marred by inconsistency, with the national team recording only seven wins in sixteen matches. But it was the embarrassing loss to their historic rivals that proved to be the final blow. Argentina outclassed Brazil in every department during the match, exposing defensive weaknesses and a lack of identity within the team.

The result leaves Brazil in fourth place in the South American qualifying standings, trailing ten points behind leaders Argentina, who have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The pressure on Dorival had been mounting for weeks, and calls for change grew louder after the team’s poor showing against Argentina.

CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues released a statement thanking Dorival for his service but made it clear that change was necessary to restore Brazil’s place at the summit of world football. The search for a replacement has already begun, with names like Jorge Jesus, currently at Al Hilal, and Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti circulating in media reports. Ancelotti remains the federation’s top target, though his contract with Madrid runs until 2026.

Dorival’s time in charge will be remembered as a transitional period filled with experimentation but ultimately lacking the results or structure needed to compete at the highest level. The talented pool of players at his disposal, including Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, never fully clicked under his system.

As Brazil turns the page, the focus now shifts to rebuilding confidence and securing qualification in the remaining matches. The road to the World Cup continues but with a new face expected on the touchline, and the weight of an entire nation watching.