Not exciting Carlo Ancelotti’s first game in charge led to a 0-0 draw between Brazil and Ecuador
Carlo Ancelotti was under a lot of pressure after Brazil’s 0-0 stalemate with runners-up Ecuador in Thursday’s South American World Cup qualifiers was a dismal start for the Italian manager.
Brazil struggled to penetrate Ecuador’s well-organized defense and had few opportunities in the first half, the most obvious of which was a Vinicius Jr. attempt that Gerson helped with but was stopped by goalie Gonzalo Valle.
John Yeboah tried a through pass for Ecuador in the second half, but goalscorer Nilson Angulo was offside.
With Richarlison wasting a well-placed pass from Vinicius Jr. in the box and Valle saving Casemiro’s strong long-range attempt, Ancelotti’s team produced additional opportunities but were unable to take advantage of them.
“We must constantly grow better, of course, but we are gradually improving. The new coach has only been there for two or three days. The mood and dynamic are both excellent. It’s great to be back. After the game, Casemiro remarked, “The atmosphere is fantastic.”
“Ancelotti still hasn’t had time to present his strategy to us. Vinicius continued, “We’ve just been training for two or three days.
With 22 points, Brazil is still in fourth place. Just last month, Ancelotti was named the club’s new coach. His job is to lead the team back from a tough moment, which will be a difficult feat as they aim to win the world championship six times.
Third-place Paraguay, who defeated Uruguay 2-0 earlier, will be their next opponents.
Ecuador, however, is still in second place with 24 points and is getting closer to qualifying. The top six teams advance straight to the World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada the following year. On Tuesday, they take on Peru, who are in ninth place.
