Carlo Ancelotti’s debut as Brazil head coach ended without a goal as his team played out a 0-0 draw against Ecuador in World Cup qualifying. The match in Guayaquil saw the five-time champions unable to find a breakthrough despite several attempts. Flamengo’s Gerson went closest to scoring for the visitors but was denied by a well-organized Ecuadorian defense.
Ecuador nearly took the lead late in the first half when John Yeboah, who plays for Venezia, sent a header narrowly over the crossbar. Brazil continued to search for an opening in the second half, with Casemiro testing Gonzalo Valle, but the Ecuador goalkeeper made a solid stop to keep the scores level.
Ancelotti, who took charge after parting ways with Real Madrid last month, had to be content with a point from his opening match. Brazil now sit fourth in the standings with 22 points after 15 games.
Argentina extend lead, Paraguay climb
Argentina maintained their spot at the top of the South American qualifying group with a narrow win over Chile. Julian Alvarez of Atletico Madrid scored the only goal of the match, securing a 1-0 victory. Lionel Messi, now playing for Inter Miami, came on in the second half to help close out the result.
With the win, Argentina moved ten points clear at the summit. Ecuador, despite the draw with Brazil, remain in second with 24 points. Paraguay joined them on the same total following a 2-0 win over Uruguay.
Talleres midfielder Matias Galarza opened the scoring for Paraguay. The result was sealed late in the match when Julio Enciso, who plays for Brighton, converted a penalty nine minutes from time.
Qualification picture taking shape
The top six nations from South America will earn automatic spots at the 2026 World Cup, which is set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With three rounds remaining, Argentina have a strong grip on first place, while Brazil face pressure to hold on to their qualification spot.
