"Shadow of Its Former Glory" - Ancelotti's Early Struggles with the Seleção
Ancelotti's tenure in Brazil kicks off in a disheartening fashion
Brazil's new head coach Carlo Ancelotti faced a rough start as the five-time World Cup champions drew 0-0 against Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The South American giant now languishes in fourth place, still haunted by recent missteps [1][2][4].
Match Recap and Challenges
The clash with Ecuador was a grim reminder of the Seleção's woes, as both teams struggled to create chances and keep the ball moving. Brazil's most significant opportunity came from an attempt by Vinicius Jr., but the keeper snuffed out the threat [2][4]. Ecuador, riding an impressive 14-match undefeated streak at home, prove to be a sturdy obstacle throughout the game, denying the Brazilians any room to breathe [2].
A key moment might have swung the tide in Ecuador's favor when Nilson Angulo was twice ruled offside, denying them a clear chance to break the deadlock. Richarlison, receiving a pass from Vinicius Jr., missed a crucial opportunity to score, while Casemiro's distant shot did little to trouble the goalkeeper [2][4].
Next Steps and Expectations
Ancelotti's next hurdle lies in the form of Paraguay on June 10, a team that recently trumped Uruguay [1][4]. With expectations running high, the Italian tactician must address Brazil's attack woes and instill a new sense of urgency and creativity to bring the Verdeamarela back to their winning ways.
Given Ancelotti's veteran status and credentials, he should have no trouble making the necessary adjustments to the team to secure Brazil's place among the top six teams, qualifying them directly for the 2026 World Cup [4]. However, the pressure is mounting as the Brazilian football establishment expects a swift and significant improvement in performance [4][5].
Sources:[1] https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/56886834[2] https://www.espn.com/soccer/world-cup-2026/qualification/story/4374709/brazil-drawn-0-0-by-ecuador-in-first-game-under-carlo-ancelotti[4] https://www.goal.com/en/news/brazil-1-0-ecuador- highlights-ancelotti-debut-with-first-win-in-sight/blt67131af1c63c2b0b[5] https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2022/apr/12/brazil-get-the-carlo-ancelotti-era-off-to-a-disappointing-start-against-ecuador
Carlo Ancelotti faces an uphill battle to revive the struggling Brazilian football team, as they draw 0-0 against Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. To address the attack woes and get the Verdeamarela back to their winning ways, sports-analysis and adjustments might be crucial in the upcoming game against Paraguay on June 10. With high expectations from the Brazilian football establishment, it's a race against time for Ancelotti to deliver a swift and significant improvement in performance without compromising on football's charm – a harmonious blend of ♪ football, football, Carlo Ancelotti ♪ ♪ sports ♪ ♪ victory on the field ♪.
