Overview
- In his first match since replacing Dorival Júnior, Ancelotti overhauled Brazil’s lineup, bringing veteran Casemiro back and debuting 18-year-old Estêvão in place of the suspended Raphinha.
- Brazil managed few clear scoring opportunities, producing only one shot on target in the opening 45 minutes against Ecuador’s organised defence.
- Ecuador’s replacement goalkeeper Gonzalo Valle made key saves, helping the hosts secure a clean sheet and maintain second place with 24 points.
- After fifteen qualifiers, Brazil sit fourth with 22 points, two behind both Paraguay and Ecuador who each have 24, with Argentina already qualified.
- Ancelotti plans to reintegrate Raphinha for the June 10 home match against Paraguay to bolster Brazil’s attacking options.