Vinicius Jr apologised to Brazilian fans on July 10 for the “enormous frustration” caused by their World Cup elimination by Norway and promised to “fight” to restore the might of the Selecao.

The five-time world champions were knocked out by upstarts Norway in a shock 2-1 last-16 defeat, thanks to two late goals from Manchester City star striker Erling Haaland.

“Almost four years later, I’m once again thinking about what to write after the disappointment of a World Cup,” Real Madrid superstar Vinicius said in an Instagram message to fans, referring to the quarter-final loss to Croatia at Qatar 2022.

“So many people of all ages supported us and embraced our dream that it would be unfair to remain silent. But I needed a few days to reflect.”

He added: “Wearing the Brazil shirt is the greatest honour of my life, and going out of a World Cup in the round of 16 is a feeling that’s hard to explain.

“I know how much I prepared, how much I focused, how much I wanted the World Cup for you, for my family. The feeling of frustration is enormous.

“We had a squad strong enough to do more, and we didn’t achieve it. I apologise and I will fight for our dream of returning to the top of the world.”

Vinicius, 26 on July 12, scored four goals and provided one assist in the tournament for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

His message was accompanied by a black-and-white photograph of him lying on the grass, after Norway’s win on July 5

The Selecao won the last of their five World Cup titles over two decades ago in 2002.

National teams coordinator Rodrigo Caetano has reaffirmed his confidence in the team’s Italian coach Ancelotti, despite the World Cup disappointment.

The ex-Real and AC Milan coach was appointed in May 2025 and recently signed a contract extension to stay until 2030.

Ancelotti may have been realistic enough to know winning the 2026 World Cup was a big ask, but going out so soon is an enormous disappointment.

Despite that, he insisted he would stay.

“A defeat is the start of a new adventure. Now we need to keep working hard and keep improving,” he said.

“This is football. This is sport. You just have to deal with it. We will use this as fuel going forward.”

That means turning their attention towards the next Copa America in 2028, before they can build to the 2030 World Cup.

By the time that comes around, the nation of the great Pele will have gone 28 years without lifting the trophy.

The 67-year-old Ancelotti has an ageing squad, with 10 players in their thirties.

“We need fresh talent, top-class players who can play in the national team of the future,” added Ancelotti.

AFP

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BY KUNLE SOLAJA, NEW YORK

The FIFA Foundation has pledged USD 1 million from its Humanitarian Fund to assist relief operations following the devastating earthquake that has struck Venezuela, providing much-needed support to affected communities as recovery efforts gather momentum.

The world football body’s charitable arm announced that the funding would be directed towards urgent humanitarian assistance, helping both local and international relief organisations respond to the disaster and support thousands of people impacted by the earthquake.

The contribution forms part of the FIFA Foundation’s ongoing commitment to providing rapid emergency assistance whenever communities are affected by natural disasters or humanitarian crises around the world.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed solidarity with the people of Venezuela, stressing that football’s influence extends far beyond the boundaries of the game.

“The people of Venezuela have the full solidarity of the global football family during this incredibly difficult time,” Infantino said.

“Football has a unique ability to unite and inspire hope, especially in moments of crisis. Through the FIFA Foundation, we are proud to stand alongside the people of Venezuela and support humanitarian organisations and local partners working tirelessly to deliver urgent assistance to those most affected.”

The funding is expected to support emergency response initiatives, including the provision of essential aid and services as affected communities begin the long process of rebuilding their lives.

FIFA Foundation Executive Chairman Mauricio Macri said the organisation was determined to use football’s global reach to assist those facing hardship.

“The thoughts of everyone at the FIFA Foundation are with all those who have been affected by this devastating earthquake,” Macri said.

“Football has an extraordinary ability to bring people together, especially in moments of great need. Through our Humanitarian Fund, we are committed to standing alongside the people of Venezuela and supporting outstanding organisations working tirelessly to provide emergency assistance to affected communities.”

Football authorities within Venezuela have also joined the relief effort. The Venezuelan Football Federation (FVF) has been mobilising support through the country’s football community, highlighting the role that sport can play in helping communities cope with tragedy and accelerate recovery.

The latest intervention adds to a growing list of humanitarian initiatives undertaken by the FIFA Foundation since its establishment.

Through its Humanitarian Fund, the organisation has distributed millions of dollars in financial assistance and emergency supplies to communities affected by conflicts, natural disasters and other humanitarian emergencies across the globe.

FIFA said additional details regarding the deployment of the funds and the specific projects that will benefit from the assistance will be announced after ongoing humanitarian assessments are completed and operational arrangements are finalised.

The move once again demonstrates football’s capacity to act as a force for solidarity, extending its influence beyond the stadium to provide hope and practical support when communities face their greatest challenges.

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England captain Harry Kane stands on the brink of joining one of the most exclusive clubs in Three Lions history when he takes to the field against Norway in Saturday’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final.

Should Kane find the back of the net, he will equal Gary Lineker’s England record of scoring in four consecutive World Cup appearances. Lineker achieved the feat during the 1986 and 1990 tournaments, cementing his status as one of England’s greatest World Cup performers.

Kane has already built an impressive World Cup legacy, leading England’s attack across multiple editions and consistently delivering on football’s biggest stage. A goal against Norway would not only keep England’s semi-final hopes alive but also place him alongside the legendary Lineker in the record books.

The Bayern Munich striker has been one of England’s key figures throughout the tournament and will once again carry the hopes of a nation seeking a second World Cup crown.

With history beckoning and a semi-final ticket at stake, Kane has another opportunity to underline his reputation as one of England’s most prolific big-match players.

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