Brazil pale on Ancelotti's debut

In his first match as head coach of the Brazilian national team, coach Ancelotti did not have many options. With Raphinha and Rodrygo absent, the former Real Madrid captain arranged for Vinicius, Richarlison and Estevao to start.

Against an opponent with the most solid defense in the South American qualifiers, Brazil's attacks did not create many breakthroughs. The most notable opportunity for the "Selecao" in the first half came from an individual error on the Ecuadorian side. Estevao contested, opening up space for Vinicius, but the player born in 2000 could not take advantage to score.

The break did not help Brazil improve their play. The visitors' attacks mostly depended on Vinicius' individual breakthroughs. On the rare occasion that Vinicius passed the ball to Richarlison, the Tottenham striker unfortunately missed.

Brazil (blue shirt) was helpless against host Ecuador.

Although coach Ancelotti tried to make some adjustments, the appearance of Gabriel Martinelli and Matheus Cunha could not make an impression against the fierce pressure from the home team's midfielders.

Brazil's only shot on target in the second half belonged to Casemiro. However, the veteran born in 1992's long-range effort was not dangerous enough to beat goalkeeper Valle.

The match ended in a 0-0 draw. Brazil maintained their unbeaten streak against Ecuador since 2004. Coach Ancelotti's team finished 4th with 22 points, 7 points above the play-off spot and having played one more game. Meanwhile, Ecuador climbed to 2nd place with 24 points, thereby moving closer to a World Cup ticket.

In the next round taking place on June 11, Brazil returns home to host Paraguay, the team currently ranked 3rd in the South American qualifying round.