Lacklustre Carlo Ancelotti debut as Brazil held to goalless draw at Ecuador
GUAYAQUIL – Carlo Ancelotti got off to a disappointing start as Brazil coach in their South American World Cup qualifier on June 5, drawing 0-0 against Ecuador and putting the Italian under considerable pressure.
Brazil were unable to break down Ecuador's organised defence and had few chances in the first half, the clearest coming from a Vinicius Jr attempt that was saved by goalkeeper Gonzalo Valle.
Ecuador threatened in the second half when John Yeboah attempted a through ball, but striker Nilson Angulo was caught offside.
Ancelotti's side created more chances, but failed to capitalise, with Richarlison squandering a well-placed pass from Vinicius in the box and Casemiro's powerful long-range shot being saved by Valle.
'It was a very good defensive game. I saw the team better with the ball, playing a little more fluidly. In the end, it was a good draw, and we leave here confident for the next match,' Ancelotti said.
'The conditions were complicated for a more elaborate style of play. We had good chances with Vini and Casemiro in the second half. We could have been better in attack, but we must also respect the opponent's strength. Ecuador played well, just like us.
'As I said, we needed more in attack. Ecuador defended well, and it wasn't easy to find spaces between the lines. We struggled to build clear chances and didn't always have clean possession in the final third. I don't want to make excuses, but the pitch wasn't in ideal condition to play.'
The 65-year-old, who left Real Madrid at the end of the European season, has been charged with taking Brazil through the latter stages of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
The former AC Milan and Chelsea manager replaced Dorival Junior, who was sacked at the end of March after the 4-1 thrashing at the hands of reigning champions and bitter rivals Argentina.
"Of course we always have to improve, but little by little we're getting better. It's only been two or three days with a new coach. The dynamic is good, the atmosphere is good," Casemiro said.
Vinicius added: 'Ancelotti hasn't had time to show us his game plan yet. It's only been two or three days of training.'
Brazil remain in fourth place with 22 points.
Their next opponents are third-placed Paraguay, who won 2–0 against Uruguay earlier.
Meanwhile, Ecuador are closer to qualifying, remaining in second place with 24 points. The top six teams qualify directly for next year's World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. They play ninth-placed Peru on June 10. REUTERS, AFP
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