By Africalivenews Staff
Brazil — There’s no easing into the job for new Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti. The legendary Italian tactician, known for his calm demeanor and tactical prowess, is already deep in preparations for his debut match as manager of the Seleção, with a crucial World Cup qualifier against Ecuador set for Thursday night.
Appointed to rejuvenate a faltering Brazilian side, Ancelotti takes over at a pivotal moment. Brazil currently sit fourth in the South American qualification standings with 21 points—10 points behind leaders Argentina, who humiliated them with a 4-1 defeat in March. That loss not only sealed Argentina’s place at the top but also led to the sacking of Dorival Júnior, paving the way for Ancelotti’s arrival.
“I didn’t come here for a farewell tour,” Ancelotti said during his introductory media briefing on Monday in São Paulo. “Brazil is a football nation with immense talent and expectations. I’m here to bring out the best in these players, starting now.”
All Eyes on Thursday’s Clash
Ancelotti’s first test is no walk in the park. Ecuador, known as La Tricolor, have been one of the surprises of the qualifying campaign. They currently sit in second place with 23 points, having impressed under Argentine head coach Sebastián Beccacece. Thursday’s match at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiabá is not just another qualifier—it’s a statement of intent.
Despite the standings, Brazil fans will find some comfort in the team’s historical dominance. The Seleção edged Ecuador 1-0 in the reverse fixture last September, thanks to a goal from Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. And overall, Ecuador have not beaten Brazil in over two decades—their last victory came in 2004. Since then, Brazil have gone unbeaten in 13 encounters.
But the mood within the Brazilian camp is not one of complacency. Training sessions this week have been intense, with Ancelotti reportedly emphasizing defensive organization, faster transitions, and improved communication.
“There’s a new energy in the camp,” said captain Casemiro. “We know we’ve underperformed, and now we’ve got a manager who has won it all. We’re ready to turn the page.”
A New Era Begins
Carlo Ancelotti is no stranger to pressure. A four-time UEFA Champions League winner and a domestic champion in five countries, the 64-year-old has managed elite clubs including AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and most recently, Real Madrid. Yet, this is his first stint managing a national team—and the expectations in Brazil are unlike any other.
“This is a new challenge, and I’m excited,” Ancelotti said. “International football is different. You don’t get daily training sessions over months—you get moments. That makes every decision more crucial.”
Ancelotti’s appointment was months in the making, with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) courting him even before the Copa America. His official tenure was delayed due to commitments with Real Madrid, but now that he’s here, the focus is on delivering results quickly.
Already, Ancelotti has made several notable selections for the Ecuador clash. Veteran goalkeeper Alisson returns to the starting lineup, while young striker Endrick—dubbed the “next Ronaldo”—has been promoted from the U-20 side. Neymar remains sidelined with injury, but the attacking burden will be shared by Vinícius Júnior, Gabriel Martinelli, and Rodrygo.
“The talent is there—it always is in Brazil,” said Ancelotti. “But it’s about cohesion, mentality, and balance. That’s what we’re building.”
Ecuador’s Resurgence
Brazil may boast the pedigree, but Ecuador are not arriving as underdogs. Beccacece’s squad has shown resilience and tactical discipline throughout the campaign. They stunned Chile with a 2-0 away victory last month and drew 1-1 with Uruguay in Montevideo.
The team is anchored by Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié and Brighton’s dynamic midfielder Moisés Caicedo. Upfront, 21-year-old sensation Kevin Rodríguez has emerged as a genuine threat, scoring four goals in the last five matches.
“We respect Brazil, but we don’t fear them,” said Beccacece during a press conference in Quito. “This Ecuador side has belief, and we’ve shown we can compete with the best.”
With both teams eager to solidify their position in the qualification race, the Thursday night fixture promises high drama.
Qualification Pressure Building
While the top six teams in the South American group qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, Brazil’s inconsistent form has raised eyebrows. With just five matches remaining, every point matters.
“Our position isn’t catastrophic, but it’s not where Brazil should be,” said Brazilian legend Cafu in a recent interview. “We need to reassert our dominance, and Ancelotti is the man to lead that mission.”
Indeed, Brazil’s last few qualifying results have fallen short of expectations—losses to Uruguay, Colombia, and Argentina all within the past year have cast doubt on the squad’s tactical cohesion and mental fortitude.
But there’s now cautious optimism. Ancelotti’s arrival brings not only elite-level experience but also a calm authority that could settle the nerves of a talented, if inconsistent, squad.
Looking Ahead
After the Ecuador clash, Brazil will face Paraguay in a midweek fixture before entering a preparatory camp for the 2025 Copa America, which is scheduled to take place in the United States. The competition is seen as a crucial milestone for Ancelotti’s long-term project.
“We’re building towards something,” Ancelotti concluded. “But to build, you need a strong foundation. That starts with winning games—and that starts Thursday.”
