Brazil return to winning ways with dreary victory over Ecuador

Brazil returned to form in the South American World Cup qualifiers with a lackluster 1-0 victory over Ecuador on Friday, courtesy of a first-half goal from Real Madrid forward Rodrygo (23).

Following three consecutive defeats in the qualifiers, Brazil managed to secure a crucial win that propelled the five-time World Cup champions to fourth place in the standings, accumulating 10 points.

They trail leaders Argentina by eight points and hold a slim two-point advantage over Ecuador, who sit in sixth place, the final position that guarantees qualification for the 2026 finals.

This match marked Brazil's first outing after a disappointing quarter-final exit in the Copa America against Uruguay, yet their performance remained uninspired. Despite controlling possession, they struggled to generate significant scoring opportunities throughout the encounter.

Brazil's passing was often inaccurate, and they found it challenging to establish a cohesive attack, lacking creativity in overcoming Ecuador's formidable defensive setup.

Ecuador applied relentless pressure with three industrious forwards, making it difficult for Brazil to execute their plays. The visitors restricted Brazil's access to the penalty area, compelling them to circulate the ball laterally around their own box and resort to long-range attempts.

In the first half, Brazil managed only two shots on target, both from Rodrygo. After testing the goalkeeper with a free-kick early in the match, he was fortunate to score in the 29th minute. His shot from the edge of the box deflected off a defender, arcing over the wrong-footed goalkeeper, striking the right post, and ultimately finding the net.

Ecuador nearly equalized in a counter-attack just before halftime, but defender Gabriel Magalhaes thwarted Moises Caicedo's attempt with a crucial goal-line clearance.

In the second half, Brazil's performance deteriorated further, with an uninspired Vinicius Jr managing their sole shot on target during a tense 45 minutes, which was met with boos at the final whistle.

"We needed this win, regardless of how it looked. I am pleased with the victory and my goal, and I hope it contributes to our improvement and progression towards our desired level," Rodrygo stated to Brazilian TV Globo.

Brazil is scheduled to play against Paraguay in Asuncion on Tuesday, while Ecuador will host Peru in Quito on Monday.