CORNERFLICK
Brazil have been knocked out of the World Cup by Norway, losing 2-1 in the last 16 and leaving the tournament in a state of confusion and disappointment.
Players left MetLife Stadium after the match and returned to their New Jersey hotel, where the mood around the camp was described as sombre. Some members of the squad later attended a family dinner, but the atmosphere remained grim as Brazil prepared to head home.
The defeat has deepened concern around a side now closing in on 28 years without a World Cup title, an unthinkable gap for a nation long associated with fearsome attacking football. Brazil no longer carry the aura that once unsettled opponents before kick-off.
Inside the federation, officials want stability to build towards the 2030 World Cup, with one saying they hope to continue under the same coach and improve over time. But the problems go beyond results. The federation has also been hit by political and legal turmoil, including the recent removal of its president.
Since Tite left after the 2022 World Cup, Brazil have used four head coaches and tried 96 players, underlining the lack of direction around the national team.