Carlo Ancelotti most likely would’ve most well-liked totally different opposition for his first recreation as supervisor of the Brazilian nationwide crew, having to match up towards a sneaky-good and really stingy Ecuador crew in World Cup qualifying. The truth is, after Thursday night time’s 0-0 draw, Ecuador have now conceded simply 5 (5) targets of their 15 qualifiers and regardless of a three-point deduction, sit second within the desk behind the already-qualified defending champions, Argentina.
Brazil made the change to Ancelotti this summer season — congrats! — to assist them recuperate their anticipated glories, and he made a pair daring requires his first recreation in cost. That included a primary senior begin handed out to younger Estêvão Willian, contemporary off a wonderful half season with Palmeiras that noticed him rating 4 instances in 5 Copa Libertadores video games, including three assists within the opening weeks of the Série A season as properly. (He’ll stick with Palmeiras for the Membership World Cup, then come over to London.)
Sadly, Estêvão discovered little pleasure towards Ecuador, who, as traditional, had been marshalled by Moisés Caicedo in midfield. Caicedo would play the full-90. Kendry Páez went an unused substitute.
Ancelotti launched younger Andrey Santos within the ultimate quarter hour as properly, however Ecuador did what Ecuador do finest and saved their clear sheet.
So a barely inauspicious begin for Uncle Carlo and our boy Steve, however I’m certain it’ll get solely higher for each.
“I see what everybody sees: that he’s a participant with extraordinary, particular expertise, very younger, and who nonetheless has issues to study. Estêvão is a gifted participant, humble, has drive and persona. He has immense creativity, a ton of qualities”
“Clearly, he has all of the traits to be a vital participant for the way forward for the nationwide crew.”
-Carlo Ancelotti, pre-match; supply: Goal
