Tri-cky customers: The Ecuadorians to look out for against Mexico
After a flawless group stage, the Mexicans face their first knockout test against Ecuador, a team that beat Germany.
Tonight at the Estadio Azteca, the Mexican national team will take on Ecuador in the World Cup round of 32. The South American side boasts several standout players that Mexico will need to keep a close eye on.
UCL finalists dominate the defense
Ecuador’s greatest strength lies along the back line, where they feature two players who appeared in this season’s UEFA Champions League final - one with Paris Saint-Germain and the other with Arsenal.
Anchoring the defense are center back Willian Pacho (PSG) and fullback Piero Hincapié (Arsenal), complemented by Alan Franco (Atlético Mineiro) and Joel Ordóñez (Club Brugge).
In midfield sits Chelsea regular Moisés Caicedo, joined by Pedro Vite (Pumas UNAM), along with John Yeboah (Venezia FC) and Nilson Angulo (Sunderland).
Up front is a familiar face for Liga MX fans: veteran striker Enner Valencia leads the line alongside Gonzalo Plata (Flamengo). Off the bench, Ecuador can also call on rising talent Kendry Páez, who is under contract with Chelsea and currently on loan at River Plate.
How did Mexico and Ecuador qualify for the last 32?
Mexico finished atop its group, has yet to concede a goal, and has scored six times so far. Ecuador, meanwhile, found the net just twice and advanced in third place in its group after defeating Germany.
Mexico vs Ecuador: kickoff times, how to watch in the U.S.
The round-of-32 clash in Mexico City kicks off this evening at 9:00 p.m. ET/6:00 p.m. PT. Viewers in the U.S. can watch the game on Fox Network, Telemundo, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo, Universo, Fox One and fubo.
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