Brazil's New Era Begins with Stalemate in Quito
No fireworks, no goals—just a lot of tension and tactical battling as Carlo Ancelotti's first match in charge of Brazil ended in a 0-0 draw away to Ecuador. Fans tuning in for a glimpse of the famous Italian manager's plans for the Seleção didn't get much in the way of attacking spectacle, but they sure got a masterclass in defensive organization from both sides.
Brazil lined up in a classic 4-2-3-1, a shape Ancelotti has leaned on plenty during his decorated club career. Alisson was back between the posts, with Vanderson and the seasoned pair of Marquinhos and Éder Militão marshaling the backline. Casemiro, a familiar anchor, sat deep in midfield next to Bruno Guimarães. But all eyes were on Vinicius Jr., wearing the No. 10 shirt and pulling the creative strings just behind Richarlison. Rony filled out the frontline, aiming to stretch Ecuador's stubborn defense.
Ecuador Frustrate, Brazil Miss Their Chances
Ecuador, with a sturdy setup, looked ready to dig in all night. Gonzalo Valle had the busier evening, taking center stage more than once. Vinicius Jr. twice forced Valle into sharp stops, dancing inside from the wing the way only he can. Casemiro stung Valle's hands from distance late in the first half, but the net stayed untouched.
Brazil saw far more of the ball, but Ecuador never seemed rattled. On the break, John Yeboah's clever passing nearly carved open the visitors' often high defensive line. Nilson Angulo even got clear, only to see the flag raised for offside—one of several nervy moments for Ancelotti's men.
After the break, the best chance fell to Richarlison. The Tottenham striker, so often Brazil's finisher, arrived perfectly on the end of a cutback from Vinicius. But with the goal gaping, his hurried touch skidded wide—groans echoed from every Brazil fan watching.
- Possession stats heavily favored Brazil, but Ecuador's game plan of compactness and quick counters gave them hope throughout.
- Ecuador's backline barely put a foot wrong, regularly closing down spaces before Brazil could make their possession count.
The point barely shifts the balance in the qualification group, but it definitely ups the pressure for both sides. Ecuador holds strong to second with 24 points, while Brazil, stranded on 22, now look nervously over their shoulder with Paraguay looming large as their next rival. Ecuador, meanwhile, will see a ninth-placed Peru as a chance to lock in their *World Cup qualifier* momentum.
Both managers now have big selection calls for the next showdown. Will Ancelotti shake things up after his quiet debut? Or stick with his trusted stars and hope chemistry comes with time?
- Jun, 6 2025
- Cassius Montgomery
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