Lacklustre 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 Ecuadors 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.

Ancelottis side created more chances, but failed to capitalise, with Richarlison squandering a well-placed pass from Vinicius in the box and Casemiros 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