Carlo Ancelotti says that his first game was in charge of Brazil was a “special gift”, even though it ended in a Dour 0-0 draw with Ecuador.
There was little quality to scream about in the game, although Brazil came a step closer to 2026 World Cup qualifying.
Ancelotti is the first foreign manager who is in charge of Brazil, after he left Real Madrid at the end of the domestic season 2024-25 to get in the GAP after firing Dorival Junior.
And although his first game in the Dugout was fairly underwhelming, that took nothing away from the opportunity for Ancelotti.
“My first game is responsible for a national team, my heart felt something special,” he told the CBF website.
“I was sitting on the couch for more than 1,800 competitions, and this one was special. I think I can make an assessment of this first period; I was happy with the reception.
“I am happy that I can work with the CBF and for me it is a gift to be here.”
Partida Enerrada No Equador. O brasil empatou por 0x0 e segue para o próximo confronto contra o paraguai, em São Paulo.
Rafael Ribeiro/CBF pic.twitter.com/yttxo28HU
– CBF FUTEBOL (@CBF_FUTEBOL) 6 June 2025
Brazil only succeeded in three shots, two of which were on goal, against Ecuador, who had seven attempts.
The Selecao was without the suspended Raphinha, who enjoyed a productive campaign with Barcelona and registered 56 targets (34 goals, 22 assists) in all competitions.
“I saw the team play better with the ball, with a slightly more liquid game,” added Ancelotti to the game.
“It was a good draw and we are satisfied with confidence for the next game.
“We have players of very good quality. There is not much time to work, but there is the possibility of improvement because we have quality.
'I am sure that we will improve the attack. Today we missed an important player [in] Raphinha. “