Brazil’s new manager Carlo Ancelotti said his side lacked ‘sharpness in attack’ as his first match in charge ended with a tepid goalless draw against Ecuador.
Richarlison and Vinicius Jr started up front for Brazil in the former Real Madrid manager’s first match as an international coach.
But neither could find a way through in a draw that leaves Brazil in fourth place in South American qualifying.
¡SORPRESAS EN SUDAMÉRICA! 🔥
De esta manera queda la tabla en Conmebol rumbo al Mundial 2026.🔴Más detalles: https://t.co/CIJlCiDq6A pic.twitter.com/mmzGCwVC2T
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Ancelotti said: “The conditions made it difficult for a smooth game. We had good moments with Vinícius and Casemiro in the second half. Yes, we could have been sharper in attack, but you have to consider the strength of the opponent.
“Ecuador defended well; it was hard to find space between the lines, and advancing the ball was challenging — finishing attacks cleanly in the final third didn’t always happen. I don’t want to make excuses, but playing under those conditions wasn’t easy.
In my first match leading the national team, I felt something special. I’ve coached over 1,800 matches, but this one was unique.
“Our aim is to qualify, compete for the World Cup, and bring Brazil back to where it has always been — at the forefront of global football. That’s our target, and we will fight to achieve it.
It’s a completely different job — we have very quality players. There isn’t much preparation time, but there’s room for improvement because we have quality. I’m confident we will enhance our attacking play. Today, we missed an important player — Raphinha.”
Brazil next face Peru, with the top six sides advancing to the World Cup finals next summer.
