Ancelotti s debut day, Brazil s performance is bleak

On the morning of June 6, 2025, Brazil drew 0-0 with Ecuador away in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in the South American region.

This is Ancelotti's first game since he became the head coach of the Brazilian national team. With Rafinia and Rodrigo absent, the former Real Madrid coach can only send Vinicius, Richarlison and Estevao to start.

Facing one of the most stable defense opponents in the South American qualifiers, Brazil's offensive line failed to create too many threats. Brazil's most threatening chance in the first half came from a personal mistake by an Ecuadorian player - Estevao created an opportunity for Vinicius after a steal, but the 2000-born striker failed to seize the opportunity to score. After the break, Brazil's offense did not improve significantly. The team's offensive mainly relies on Vinicius' personal breakthroughs. Even though he occasionally passed the ball and found Richarlison, the striker who played for Tottenham Hotspur also missed an excellent shot.

Ancelotti tried to make adjustments in the second half, replacing Gabriel Martinelli and Matteus Cunia, but neither of them could make any achievements under the high-intensity pressing of the Ecuadorian midfielder.

Brazil's only shot from Casemiro throughout the second half. However, the veteran, born in 1992, lacked angle and strength in the long shot, and failed to pose a real threat to Ecuadorian goalkeeper Barracks.

In the end, the two sides exchanged a blank sheet and ended 0-0. Brazil has maintained an unbeaten record against Ecuador since 2004. After this game, Brazil ranked fourth with 22 points, 7 points ahead of the position that needed to participate in the playoffs, but one game less; while Ecuador rose to second place with 24 points, further from the qualification to directly advance to the World Cup.

The next game will be held on June 11, and Brazil will face Paraguay, currently ranked third in South America, at home.