The dramatic match saw both sides have a player sent off inside the first 20 minutes and Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker was shown red card on two occasions but both were rescinded after consultation with the VAR.
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Brazil were held to a 1-1 draw by Ecuador in an action-packed World Cup qualifier on Thursday after Felix Torres’ header fifteen minutes from time canceled out an early Casemiro goal. The dramatic match saw both sides have a player sent off inside the first 20 minutes and Brazil goalkeeper Alisson Becker was shown red card on two occasions but both were rescinded after consultation with the VAR. Meanwhile Ecuador had a goal chalked off and two penalty awards rescinded via VAR.
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Casemiro put the visitors ahead inside the opening six minutes. Raphinha’s header from Philippe Coutinho’s corner kick was pushed away by Alexander Dominguez. Although Cunha’s header from the rebound was blocked, the ball fell for Casemiro to bundle in from close range. After a lengthy VAR check, the goal was given.
In the 15th minute Dominguez was red carded for a reckless challenge, and Brazil fullback Emrson received his second yellow card five minutes later for a clumsy tackle. Five-time world champions Brazil have already qualified for the finals in Qatar. Meanwhile Ecuador are placed third in the 10-nation South American qualifying standings with 24 points from 15 games.
Amidst all the reckless challenges , Brazil boss Tite decided to protect the slender lead but Ecuador refused to give up. The hosts tried their best to get the equaliser and finally leveled the score 15 minutes from time. Centre-back Torres headed home from Plata’s corner.
There was still time for more controversy as in the stoppage time, Alisson came off his line to clear a cross but instead punched Eduar Preciado in the head on the follow through. The referee immediately pointed to the spot and the Liverpool goalkeeper was shown his second yellow card. But shortly afterwards, the referee headed to the pitch-side monitor and after rechecking the incident wiped out both the penalty and the red card.
The draw means Ecuador could secure its place in Qatar with a win at Peru on Tuesday while Brazil will host Paraguay on Wednesday.
