Argentina wins, Brazil stumbles again

KATHMANDU: Carlo Ancelotti, one of world football’s most decorated coaches, endured a disappointing debut as Brazil’s national team head coach, with his side held to a goalless draw by Ecuador in a crucial South American World Cup qualifier on Thursday in Guayaquil.

Despite high anticipation surrounding the Italian tactician’s first game in charge, neither side managed to create significant scoring chances, resulting in a lackluster 0-0 stalemate.

The result slightly dampened Ancelotti’s much-awaited entry into international management.

With the draw, Ecuador climbed to second place in the standings with 24 points, strengthening their position in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Brazil, meanwhile, sit fourth with 22 points.

The top six teams from the South American qualifiers will earn direct entry to the tournament, with reigning world champions Argentina having already secured their spot.

Ancelotti took charge after Dorival Júnior was dismissed following Brazil’s humiliating 4-0 loss to Argentina.

In his debut match, the 65-year-old coach made several key changes: he handed the iconic No. 10 jersey to Vinícius Júnior, reinstated veterans Casemiro and Richarlison into the starting XI, gave Alex his debut in defense, and fielded 16-year-old rising star Estevão on the left wing in place of the suspended Raphinha. However, the reshuffled lineup failed to deliver the breakthrough Ancelotti had hoped for.

Ecuador extended their impressive home unbeaten run to 14 matches. Brazil will face Paraguay in their next qualifier.

Meanwhile, in another match earlier in the day, Argentina defeated Chile 1-0, continuing their dominant form in the qualifiers.