Brazil's Alisson sees no advantage for teams tipped as World Cup favourites

Brazil's goalkeeper Alisson Becker has downplayed his country's status as World Cup favorites, asserting that being tipped for the title offers no inherent advantage and can even add pressure. Speaking at a press conference in New Jersey, Alisson, who is fit for his third World Cup, stressed the importance of the team's condition for the opening match.

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What really matters is the condition you are at the first game. We are ready.

"What really matters is the condition you are at the first game. We are ready," Alisson stated, reflecting on Brazil's challenging qualification campaign. He noted that the team environment has improved significantly since the arrival of Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti.

Ancelotti, who has been with the five-time champions for nearly a year, has brought a strong presence and a sense of calm to the squad. Despite mixed results during his tenure, many trust his leadership to guide Brazil to their first World Cup title in 24 years. The team's defense, which has been a point of concern, is a key focus for Ancelotti.

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He has a very strong presence in the group and gives us tranquility to work.

Brazil's World Cup journey begins against Morocco on Saturday at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Alisson expressed his ambition to join the ranks of World Cup champions, rather than just those who have participated in multiple tournaments.

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Some of those goals could have been avoided. We are working on it, because the World Cup is a short tournament. We know we will always have chances to score because of the quality of the team.