Ecuador is heading into their clash against Chile in Santiago, on matchday 14 of the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, with strong momentum. Under the guidance of Argentine coach Sebastián Beccacece, La Tricolor sits in second place in the standings and will look to strengthen their position against a struggling Chilean side with little margin for error.
Beccacece has made just one change to the lineup that secured a 2-1 victory over Venezuela, according to RedGol. John Mercado will replace Janner Corozo as an attacking midfielder, marking the only alteration in a team that has been steadily improving.
The starting eleven Beccacece is likely to field includes: Hernán Galíndez in goal; Joel Ordóñez, William Pacho, Félix Torres, and Pervis Estupiñán in defense; Moisés Caicedo and Pedro Vite as holding midfielders; Alan Franco, Gonzalo Plata, and Mercado as attacking midfielders, with Enner Valencia as the lone forward.
The match will take place this Tuesday, March 25, at the National Stadium. For Ecuador, a win would represent a major step toward World Cup qualification, while another defeat for Chile could all but seal their elimination from contention.
