Five-time World Cup champions Brazil have faced challenges in South America’s qualifiers for the 2026 tournament, but defender Marquinhos has urged fans to continue supporting the team ahead of Tuesday’s crucial home match against Uruguay.
With a record of five wins, four losses, and two draws, Brazil sits in fourth place with 17 points, five behind leaders Argentina. The top six teams automatically qualify for the World Cup, while Uruguay is currently second with 19 points.
Brazil played to a 1-1 draw in Venezuela on Thursday, with Vinicius Jr. missing a late penalty. Despite the setback, Marquinhos, who is standing in as captain for Danilo, emphasized that the players remain committed to representing the national team with pride, even when results aren’t favorable.
“Even though there may be reasons for people to lose faith in the national team, we ask that they never lose their passion for it,” the 30-year-old said during a Sunday press conference.
Brazil, under head coach Dorival Junior, is in a period of transition, and Marquinhos acknowledged that the team still has work to do. “We will make mistakes because this transition is still very new, with all the changes in players and tactics,” he said. “But we’re improving, and that makes us optimistic.”
“We’re not overly concerned with the standings as long as we remain in a comfortable position. We want to win, climb the table, and build confidence with each match,” he added.
Brazil will be without several key players for Tuesday’s match, including defender Eder Militao and forwards Neymar and Rodrygo, all sidelined due to injury.
