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PADANG – As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, set to kick off on 12 June 2026, Semen Padang FC’s head coach Nil Maizar has revealed his support for the Brazil national team.

The 2026 World Cup will open with a Group A match featuring host nation Mexico facing South Africa at 02.00 WIB in the early morning.

On the same day, South Korea is also scheduled to play against the Czech Republic at 09.00 WIB.

Despite the excitement surrounding various teams, Nil Maizar’s attention remains firmly on Brazil, which he believes will be one of the strongest contenders in the tournament held every four years.

Nil Maizar Chooses Brazil for Its Player Quality

According to Nil Maizar, Brazil continues to be one of the teams with the best player quality in the world.

He explained that many Brazilian players compete in top-tier leagues around the globe, giving them experience and skill that make them formidable in the World Cup.

“For me, it’s still Brazil, because their players are of high quality and many of them play at the top level,” said the coach, born in 1970, after visiting Indonesian football legend Suhatman Imam at his residence in Kubu Dalam Parak Karakah, Padang City, on Sunday (7 June 2026).

These two reasons, he said, are why he continues to back Brazil as his favourite team for the 2026 World Cup.

Supporting Brazil Since the 1982 World Cup

Nil Maizar’s admiration for the Brazilian national team has, in fact, lasted for decades.

The former head coach of the Indonesian national team confessed that he has been supporting Brazil since the 1982 World Cup because of the team’s abundance of talented players.

“I’ve been supporting Brazil for a long time, since 1982,” he said.

Predicts Mexico to Defeat South Africa

In addition to backing Brazil, Nil Maizar also shared his prediction for the 2026 World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa.

He believes Mexico has a greater chance of winning due to their home advantage and the strong support of their fans.

Furthermore, Nil Maizar noted that Mexico’s players have sufficient quality to overcome South Africa’s challenge.

“Of course, the home team has the edge. Even though South Africa play well, Mexico’s players and supporters are excellent, and they’ll be playing on their home ground,” he commented.