Carlos Eduardo Patetuci assesses Brazil U17's World Cup challenges

Carlos Eduardo Patetuci assesses Brazil U17's World Cup challengesUnder-17 national team coach will use the preparation period to fine-tune the teamCredits: Nelson Terme /CBFThe Brazil men's Under-17 national team is in the final stages of preparation for the 2026 World Cup in Qatar. At Granja Comary in Teresópolis, Rio de Janeiro state, where the team will remain until November 14 before departing for the host country, coach Carlos Eduardo Patetuci plans to use the training period to improve team chemistry, test different player combinations and prepare the squad for the challenges of the competition.“We'll use the time we have to strengthen the players' understanding of one another, test different combinations and possible lineups, using various systems. The idea is to make the most of this period to practice the options we might need at the World Cup,” he explained.Patetuci also assessed the team's progress throughout the preparation cycle and highlighted the contribution of friendlies and international tournaments. In his view, facing national teams from different continents helped the squad become familiar with other footballing styles and broaden its repertoire.Participation in the UEFA tournament held last month in Switzerland (look back here) was singled out as an important experience. Brazil faced Spain and Côte d'Ivoire, opponents with different characteristics from those of South American national teams.“It was very important to face these teams so close to the World Cup. It allowed us to experience other footballing cultures. African teams have a very strong physical element, but they are also improving technically and looking to play with more combinations. European teams, meanwhile, play a more organized style of football. We use drills that replicate these characteristics so we are ready for those kinds of matchups,” he said.The coach also noted that many of the players called up for the World Cup took part in the tournament in Switzerland, making it easier to maintain continuity and prepare for their group-stage opponents.Patetuci stressed that Brazil enters every competition committed to winning matches and lifting the trophy. At the same time, he believes international experience is part of the development process for players who are still growing at the age of 17.“When it comes to the Brazilian national team, we must always think about winning and claiming titles. That is our priority. But we know that player development happens at the same time. Every call-up, friendly and official competition is part of that process. We aim to win, but we also understand that the players are developing with every match and every tournament,” he reflected.Patetuci during an Under-17 national team training sessionCredits: Nelson Terme /CBFBrazil is in Group I at the World Cup alongside Ireland, Tanzania and Costa Rica. Their opening match will be against Ireland on November 21. Patetuci expects a different kind of contest from those the team is used to and highlighted the opposition's organization.“I see a match between two different footballing styles. Ireland are a tougher, organized and compact team. We'll need to be very focused to break down that organization,” he said.The coach also highlighted the emotional work being done with the players to manage the natural anxiety of a World Cup debut. The aim is for the team to put what they have been practicing into action without letting anticipation affect their performance.“These are young players who are still developing, and anxiety does arise. We're working every day on mental and emotional control so they can stay calm and do on the pitch what we've practiced. We're confident we can make a great start and secure a first win, which will be very important in building confidence for the rest of the competition,” he said.Finally, Patetuci shared a message with Brazilian fans, asking them to support the generation that will represent the country in Qatar.“I want to ask the Brazilian people to watch the matches and cheer us on. Their support is always very important. We have a very promising generation, with players who could soon reach great heights, both at their clubs and with the Brazilian national team,” he concluded.This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.