Ecuador are a side that can attack effectively in transition. Against the top teams in South America, Ecuador has no problem sitting in a low block and defending with numbers. During a 1-0 World Cup qualifying loss to Argentina in September, they closed down space quickly and frustrated Lionel Messi with well-timed tackles and disciplined defending.
Messi scored the winner in the 77th minute from a direct free kick. He also exited the match with a minor muscle injury.
“We played against a great team, with good players who are physically strong,” said Messi after that match.
Ecuador can defend but their legitimate goal-scoring No 9 in Enner Valencia is suspended. The former West Ham United striker is Ecuador’s all-time top scorer, and he’s still a match-winner at the age of 34. He’ll big a big miss today.
Ecuador does boast flair players such as Chelsea’s teenage signing Kendry Paez, and ball-playing defenders such as Piero Hincapie, Bayer Leverkusen’s well-rounded left-footed center-back who featured for the undefeated Bundesliga champions.
Source link : https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/live-blogs/ecuador-jamaica-live-updates-2024-copa-america-score-result/qchVoGr3V4CB/sRADduBjFY5b/
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Publish date : 2024-06-26 03:00:00
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