Brazil will look to move on from their disappointing 2024 Copa America campaign, as they take on Ecuador in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday.
The Selecao lost to Uruguay on penalties in the quarterfinals of this year's Copa America in July. Their performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has also been lacklustre. After three successive defeats, Brazil are currently placed sixth on the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table.
Ecuador, too, were eliminated in the quarterfinals of the 2024 Copa America. They are fifth on the qualifying table, with three wins from six matches.
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The Sporting News looks at the key details ahead of this game, including how to watch the match, kickoff times and the latest lineup news.
Brazil vs. Ecuador live stream, TV channel
Here's how to watch this CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying match in UK:
TV channel: Premier Sports 1
Live stream: Premier Sports Player
This game is available for live TV broadcast on Premier Sports 1 for viewers residing in UK. Streaming options are available on Premier Sports Player.
If this match is not available to watch live in your location or if you’re traveling abroad, you can use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). VPNs offer a secure and private online connection, allowing you to bypass geographical restrictions to access your favourite streaming services from any device anywhere in the world.
WATCH FROM ANYWHERE: Sign up for NordVPN (30-day moneyback guarantee)
What time does Brazil vs. Ecuador kick off in UK?
This CONEMBOL World Cup Qualifying clash takes place at the Couto Pereira Stadium in Curitiba, Brazil and kicks off on Friday, September 6 at 10:00 p.m. local time.
Here's how that time translates to UK:
| Date | Sat, Sep. 7 |
| Kick-off time | 2:00 a.m. BST |
| Venue | Couto Pereira Stadium |
| Location | Curitiba, Brazil |
Brazil vs. Ecuador lineups, team news
Neymar remains absent from national duty for Brazil, as he is still recovering from his anterior crucial ligament injury last year. Additionally, Yan Couto and Savinho have had to withdraw from the squad due to injury concerns.
However, fans will be excited to see future Chelsea winger Estevao Willian featured on the squad and potentially make his debut. Due to Raphinha's suspension, Brazil could line-up with an all-Real Madrid front 3 featuring Vinicius Junior, Endrick, and Rodrygo.
Brazil predicted XI (4-3-3, right to left): Allison(GK) — Danilo, Militao, Gabriel, Arana — Andre, Guimaraes, Paqueta— Rodrygo, Vinicius, Endrick.
Injured: Neymar, Savinho, Couto
Suspended: Raphinha
Ecuador come into this game without defender Christian Ramirez, who had to leave the squad after injuring his ankle in Ferencvaros' Europa League qualifying tie against Borac.
However, Pervis Estupinian's return from the sidelines will be a major boost for them, with the Brighton defender expected to start against Brazil. Enner Valencia is expected to lead the frontline, with the striker looking to add to his tally of 41 goals scored for Ecuador.
Ecuador XI (4-3-3, right to left): Galindez(GK) — Preciado, Hincapie, Pacho, Estupinan — Caicedo, Franco, Gruezo — Paez, Sarmiento, Valencia.
Injured: Ramirez
Suspended: None
Brazil vs. Ecuador Prediction
Brazil enter this match in poor form, whereas Ecuador have demonstrated potential to be a top CONMEBOL team. Nevertheless, the Selecao have a strong historical record in this fixture, which could provide them with the psychological edge needed to secure victory.
Although the visitors will pose a challenge, Brazil's stacked squad and their desire to reaffirm their status as one of the elite teams are likely to see them emerge victorious against Ecuador.
- Prediction: Brazil 2-0 Ecuador