The Carlo Ancelotti era begins for Brazil on Thursday as the Italian oversees his first match in charge of the five-time World Cup winners at Ecuador.
Ancelotti has teamed up with the Seleção after leaving Real Madrid at the end of last season, marking his first venture into international management. He arrives at an underwhelming period in Brazil’s history but will be aiming to significantly improve upon the disappointing performances produced under the watch of his predecessor Dorival Júnior.
Despite a bruising 4–1 defeat to Argentina last time out, Brazil are in no serious danger of failing to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They are currently fourth in CONMEBOL’s qualifying table and are six points ahead of seventh-placed Venezuela. With the top six teams automatically reaching the tournament, victory over Ecuador will take them even closer to booking their ticket.
Their upcoming opponents have been in exceptional form, however, and will be confident of ruining Ancelotti’s debut. Ecuador are second in the standing and two points ahead of Brazil despite a three-point deduction, with their home form particularly impressive. They will have no fears on Thursday having won five and drawn two of their matches on their own turf during qualifying.
Here is guide to the game.
