Vinicius Júnior’s goal sends Brazil to 2026 World Cup, delighting fans in Ancelotti’s home debut
Madrid-Sao Paulo
Ancelotti received some frustration from fans after Thursday’s 0-0 draw with Ecuador, as his team focused on defending the entire match. The Italian coach, who turned 66 Tuesday, promised changes to make his team more aggressive at the NeoQuimica Arena.
He was welcomed by 46,000 fans, including NBA star Gianni Antetokounmpo, who displayed a tifo in yellow and green that read “Parabens, Carleto” (Happy birthday, Carleto in Portuguese).
Gabriel Martinelli replaced midfielder Gerson and was one of the best players of the encounter. Raphinha returned after suspension and created many problems for Paraguay’s defense. And Vinicius Júnior was often seen as a targetman, sharing the duties with Matheus Cunha.
A mistake by Paraguay’s defense, a low cross by Cunha and a gentle touch by Brazil’s new No. 10 produced the only goal of the match. “It is for you,” the striker told the coach as he celebrated.
Despite the low score, the hosts were much more aggressive than in most of its games in this World Cup qualifying campaign.
“We needed to win here for our people. Now we have more time to work, see what we can improve,” Vinicius said after the match. He won’t play Brazil’s next game in qualifying against Chile due to suspension. “We need to celebrate this. After September it is all about the World Cup.”
After the final whistle, a clip of Ancelotti’s first days on the job was shown in big screens around the stadium. A raucous celebration erupted again, as if the Italian coach had brought new life to a team that only three months ago appeared lost and doomed.
He said the team was balanced despite having four strikers. He also said that Cunha’s role, as a playmaker, is the one he figures will be Neymar’s if the veteran fully recovers his fitness.
“It’s no problem to play with three or four up front. We need 10 players to run, to sacrifice,” Ancelotti said. “Rodrygo did this many times, I know him well. And Neymar will also do it.”