Can Ecuador surprise us in the 2022 FIFA World Cup?

 


Image credit : Wikipedia

Two names are sure to come to mind when you think about South American football countries: Brazil and Argentina, and maybe Uruguay as well. In the CONCACAF, though, there are a number of countries with skill that occasionally punch above their weight.

It includes Ecuador. They may not be the squad with the greatest flare or the most flashy players, but like other South American teams, they know how to compete for every ball, every tackle, and every opportunity. Because of this, you should never underrate a CONCACAF team.

Ecuador no longer has many excellent players on the team, but they still have a name eager to pull off fascinating surprises in Group A thanks to their tenacious nature and irritating defensive style.

Ecuador finished the qualifying round for the World Cup 2022 which held in South America in third position, narrowly behind the two countries with the highest ratings, Brazil and Argentina. To the amazement of the crowd, Ecuador defeated many powerhouse teams during qualifying matches, including Uruguay and Colombia.

Ecuador made three World Cup appearances in 2002, 2006, and 2014 prior to competing in the 2022 finals. Ecuador participated in the World Cup and even the regional World Cup qualifiers for the first time in 2002. You'll be shocked to know that at the time, Ecuador was ranked higher than the Brazilian team.

However, Ecuador did poorly at the 2002 World Cup, losing twice to Mexico and Italy before leaving the competition with just three points remaining. Brazil, on the other hand, won the tournament and was crowned champion.

When facing formidable opponents like Germany, Poland, and Costa Rica in a 2006 group, Ecuador found a way to surprise everyone and advance to the tournament's quarterfinals.

Ecuador competed in Group E in 2014 alongside opponents Switzerland, France, and Honduras. Ecuador failed to pull off a shock and lost to France and Switzerland in two games.

Ecuador is still treated as a mystery and is prepared to do something unique in Group A of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, despite not being as highly regarded as the Netherlands and Senegal.

Currently, Ecuador is ranked 44th in the FIFA world rankings. In June 2013, Ecuador's highest position was tenth.

Key players


The players in Ecuador's team are not the most well-known. In recent history, they haven't won any trophy either in the Copa America or the FIFA World Cup. They do have a small number of players who are active in Europe, though.

Ecuador football team captain Enner Valencia

Image credit : Wikipedia

Enner Valencia, who has played for West Ham United and Everton in the EPL, is one name that comes to mind. He now competes in the Turkish Super League for Fenerbahce.

Ecuador's most seasoned player, Enner Valencia has made 72 appearances for the national team. With 35 goals to his credit, Valencia is also Ecuador's best scorer.

Valencia had a solid start to the season, making 11 appearances, contributing two assists and scoring eight goals. Defensive midfielders Carlos Gruezo and Moisés Caicedo, together with left back Pervis Estupinan, are two of Brighton & Hove Albion's most talented players.

The official FIFA website describes Carlos Gruezo as "a technically adept holding midfielder and a precise passer of the ball." Moisés Caicedo also performs as midfield for Brighton & Hove Albion of the Premier League.

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