Ancelotti Debuts as Brazil Faces Ecuador in World Cup Qualifying

GUAYAQUIL, Ecuador — Carlo Ancelotti will make his much-anticipated debut as head coach of the Brazil national team on Thursday, June 5, when they face Ecuador in a critical World Cup qualifying match.

The kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at Estadio Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo. Brazil sits fourth in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 21 points, while Ecuador is second with 23 points.

Ancelotti’s appointment follows the dismissal of Dorival Junior after Brazil’s disappointing 4-1 loss to Argentina in March. With just four qualifying matches remaining, Brazil aims to secure their spot for the 2026 World Cup.

Brazil captain Marquinhos, who recently won the UEFA Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, believes this is a turning point for the team. “PSG demonstrated that every detail matters,” he said. “It’s the same here; we need to align with the coach’s philosophy.”

Ecuador, on the other hand, is looking for their fifth World Cup appearance, having only qualified since 2002. Their star forward Enner Valencia has scored five goals in qualifying but is nursing a thigh injury ahead of the match.

Ecuador coach Sebastián Beccacece expressed confidence in his team’s growth despite a loss earlier in the qualifiers. “We’ve improved in keeping possession and attacking,” he said. “But we still need to work on set pieces.”

Brazil’s squad includes stars like Vinicius Junior and Raphinha, but they are without Neymar due to injury, presenting a challenge for Ancelotti. “It’s important to start strong,” he stated. “This team has potential, and we want to play at a high level.”

Both teams feel the pressure as Brazil looks to solidify their World Cup standing and Ecuador hopes to finalize their berth. The historical rivalry adds intensity, with Ecuador still seeking their first win against Brazil in this qualifying cycle.

With the stakes high, Ancelotti’s debut could prove crucial for Brazil’s World Cup aspirations.