Brazil had to settle for a 1-1 draw at Ecuador in a World Cup qualifier on Thursday after Felix Torres’ header 15 minutes from time cancelled out an early Casemiro strike.

The match saw both sides have a player sent off inside the first 20 minutes and Brazil goalkeeper Alisson shown a red card on two occasions only for both to be rescinded after consultation with the Video Assistant referee (VAR).

Ecuador had a goal chalked off and two penalty awards rescinded via VAR, including one in the second-half stoppage time. Casemiro had put Brazil ahead after five minutes when he hammered home from close range after a goalmouth scramble.

Ecuador are third in the 10-nation South American qualifying standings with 24 points from 15 games.Uruguay moved into fourth spot with 19 points after beating Paraguay 1-0 in Asuncion, Luis Suarez getting the winner.

Argentina were without Lionel Messi but goals from Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez gave the visitors all three points against Chile.