Brazil saw their 10-match winning streak come to an end as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Ecuador at the 2021 Copa America.
The 2021 CONMEBOL Copa America hosts had already secured the top spot in Group B and this result was immaterial.
However, they did take the lead through Real Madrid centre-back Eder Militao after 37 minutes. The defending champions went into the break with their lead in tact.
Ecuador came out with more intent in the second half, knowing at the time that they were not certain of a spot in the quarterfinals.
Fortunately for them, in the other game of the group, Venezuela lost to Peru and that ensured Ecuador’s qualification.
Ecuador found the equaliser in the 53rd minute as Enner Valencia picked out Angel Mena with a beautiful flick-on that proved to be enough.
The draw took Ecuador to three points, one head of Venezuela, as they sealed the fourth and final qualification spot from Group B.
Brazil were the dominant side to no one’s surprise with 62% possession. However, Ecuador had an equal number of shots on target and eight shots in the game.
The Brazilians had won every single game since November 2019 and finally saw that streak come to an end.
Neymar was given a rest by Tete in what was otherwise still a very strong Brazil lineup. Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino started the game in a number 10 role.
Fabinho featured in central midfield while Alisson featured in goal completing Liverpool’s Brazilian representation in the game.
Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz partnered Fabinho in the centre of the park to make it a Premier League triangle.
Brazil will be looking to retain their Copa America title and are hot favourites to do so.
