Bahrain: PontaSud – Chiquera Swanepoel
Carlo Ancelotti got off to a disappointing start as Brazil coach in Thursday’s South American World Cup qualifiers, drawing 0-0 against runners-up Ecuador, putting the Italian manager under considerable pressure.
Brazil were unable to break down Ecuador’s organised defence and had few chances in the first half, the clearest coming from a Vinicius Jr attempt assisted by Gerson that was saved by goalkeeper Gonzalo Valle, Reuters reported.
Ecuador threatened in the second half when John Yeboah attempted a through ball, but striker Nilson Angulo was caught offside.
Ancelotti’s side created more chances, but failed to capitalise, with Richarlison squandering a well-placed pass from Vinicius Jr in the box and Casemiro’s powerful long-range shot being saved by Valle.
Brazil remain in fourth place with 22 points. Ancelottiwas appointed as the new coach only last month, tasked with pulling the team back from a difficult period – a challenging mission as they seek to become six-time world champions.
Their next opponents are third-placed Paraguay, who won 2–0 against Uruguay earlier.
