Quito: Brazil settled for a 1-1 draw away against Ecuador after Felix Torres’ scored a header which canceled out an early Casemiro strike in an interesting World Cup qualifier. Argentina on the other hand defeated Chile 2-1 without Lionel Messi, to keep their unbeaten run intact.
It was an incident-packed clash as both sides had a player sent off within the first 20 minutes. Also, Brazil goalkeeper Alisson was shown a red card on two occasions but both were rescinded after a review from the Video Assistant referee (VAR).
Casemiro put Brazil ahead just after five minutes when he hammered a shot from close range after a scramble in front of the goalmouth. Ecuador goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez was then red-carded for a reckless challenge. Brazil fullback Emerson Royal had to walk off the field just five minutes later as he was shown his second yellow of the match for a clumsy tackle.
Torres scored the equaliser on 75 minutes after Ecuador’s resilience was paid off. They had one goal ruled off and two penalty awards revoked by the VAR.
Elsewhere, Argentina grabbed their first win of the year without their talisman Lionel Messi. Angel di Maria and Lautaro Martinez scored to take the Albiceleste beyond the winning line against Chile.
Di Maria gave the visitors the lead with his trademark shot that was curled from outside the box after 10 minutes. However, Ben Brereton equalized Chile. Lautaro Martinez scored the winner from a rebound to keep Argentina’s winning streak intact.
Meanwhile, Uruguay moved into the fourth position, acquiring 19 points after they beat Paraguay 1-0 in Asuncion, Luis Suarez getting the solo winning goal.
