GUAYAQUIL, June 5 (Xinhua) -- Brazil began its new era under manager Carlo Ancelotti with a goalless away draw against Ecuador in their FIFA World Cup qualifier here on Thursday.

In a match that featured just five shots on target, Ecuador extended its unbeaten run in South American qualifiers to eight games. Brazil, meanwhile, continues to search for form, having secured just one victory from its past five qualifiers.

Ancelotti, who officially took over the five-time world champions last week after leaving Real Madrid, had emphasized the need for balance between attack and defense ahead of the match in the Pacific port city of Guayaquil.

While Brazil looked organized at the back, the team showed little attacking flair despite boasting Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior and Chelsea-bound Palmeiras teenager Estevao.

There were few clear chances in a first half that saw both teams prioritize territorial control over forward movement.

Brazil came closest in the first 20 minutes when Ecuador goalkeeper Gonzalo Valle rushed off his line to deny Vinicius following a clever pass from Gerson.

Casemiro then missed an opportunity to put Brazil ahead, heading over the bar following a corner.

Ecuador had slightly more possession before halftime but rarely threatened Alisson, whose only first-half intervention was a routine save from John Yeboah's long-range effort.

The hosts showed why they boast the best defensive record in South American qualifying, frustrating Brazil's attack after the break.

Sebastian Beccacece's side began to find more space going forward, with Pervis Estupinan racing onto Joel Ordonez's volleyed pass to deliver a dangerous cross that Casemiro cleared.

Alisson was then tested twice in quick succession, saving efforts from Yeboah and Estupinan.

Brazil's first real chance of the second half came when Casemiro forced a smart save from Valle after a Vinicius cross from the left.

Estupinan remained a threat with his runs from deep, nearly scoring a late winner with a long-range strike that sailed just over the bar.

The result means Ecuador remains second in the 10-team CONMEBOL zone standings with 24 points, two ahead of fourth-place Brazil, with three matchdays remaining. ■