From reserve to starter: How Igor Thiago won over Ancelotti

Igor Thiago's rise within the Brazilian national team has been rapid and efficient. Having received his first call-up in March 2026, the striker enters the final friendly before the World Cup in top form under Carlo Ancelotti.

This Saturday, June 6, against Egypt in Cleveland, the center-forward will earn his first start for the national side. This opportunity confirms the growing confidence the coaching staff has placed in him during his recent appearances.

Thiago's debut came as a substitute against France, and he quickly earned public backing from the Italian coach. During a 3-1 victory over Croatia, Ancelotti entrusted him with a penalty kick, which he converted. His subsequent impact in a 6-2 win against Panama further solidified his standing in the squad.

These performances have built on his impressive season at Brentford, where he finished as the Premier League's second-highest scorer with 22 goals. Carlo Ancelotti has praised the forward's intelligence and aerial strength, noting that his profile complements other attackers like Endrick effectively.

For Thiago, playing in the World Cup is the pinnacle of his career. The upcoming match against Egypt represents a key opportunity to prove he is more than just a second-half option and to cement his role in Brazil's offensive plans.