Carlo Ancelotti’s official debut as Brazil head coach ended in disappointment as the Seleção were held to a goalless draw by Ecuador in Guayaquil. Despite showing defensive stability, Brazil struggled to generate clear chances, underlining the need to adapt to the Italian coach’s new system. The result keeps Brazil in fourth place in the South American qualifying group on 22 points, while Ecuador consolidate second with 24.
In Santiago, Argentina—already qualified for the 2026 World Cup—secured a narrow 1-0 win over Chile thanks to a 16th-minute strike from Julian Alvarez. The match also featured the senior debut of River Plate’s 2007-born prodigy Franco Mastantuono.
Meanwhile, Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay endured a damaging 2-0 defeat away to Paraguay in Asunción. Missing key players like Federico Valverde and Darwin Núñez, La Celeste looked vulnerable at the back, conceding goals to Matías Galarza and Julio Enciso (penalty). The loss adds pressure to Uruguay’s qualifying campaign.
Spalletti: “We were chosen for this match – we must hold our heads high”
06 Jun - 11:06 •
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