Current Form & Standings
Chile comes into this game desperate for points. They currently find themselves near the bottom of the table and are clinging to their fading qualification hopes. The 1-0 defeat to Paraguay in their previous outing was a significant blow, especially considering their improved form toward the end of 2024.
Their recent struggles have been exacerbated by a toothless attack and inconsistent performances, particularly away from home. However, Chile’s home form provides a glimmer of hope, as they’ve shown resilience when playing in Santiago.
With just five games remaining, Chile needs to maximise points from every match to have any hope of reaching the playoffs, especially with four teams battling fiercely for that precious fifth spot.
Meanwhile, Ecuador has been one of the standout teams in this qualifying campaign. Despite starting with a three-point deduction, they have stormed their way up the table, currently sitting in second place with 22 points. They are now well-positioned to secure a World Cup spot for the second consecutive tournament, which would be only the second time in their history they’ve achieved back-to-back qualifications.
Sebastian Beccacece’s men have been in superb form, going six games unbeaten, collecting 14 points in that stretch. Their defensive solidity has been the foundation of their success, conceding only five goals in 13 matches, the best defensive record in the CONMEBOL qualifiers.
However, with a challenging set of fixtures ahead, including games against Brazil and Argentina, Ecuador will be eager to grab as many points as possible against struggling opposition like Chile.
Head-to-Head Record
Ecuador claimed a 1-0 victory over Chile in the reverse fixture back in November 2023, and they also defeated Chile the last time they visited Santiago during the previous World Cup qualifying campaign.
Chile’s poor recent record against Ecuador highlights their struggles against high-pressing, disciplined sides. However, playing on home soil might offer the spark they need to break their winless streak against La Tri.
Key Stats
- Chile’s Home Record: While their overall campaign has been disappointing, Chile has managed to pick up crucial points at home, which will be key to their slim hopes of qualifying.
- Ecuador’s Defence: Conceded just five goals in 13 matches, boasting the best defensive record in the South American qualifiers.
- Chile’s Injury Woes: With several key players missing, including Fabian Hormazabal, Marcelo Morales, Marcelino Nunez, Erick Pulgar, and Williams Alarcon, Chile’s squad depth will be tested.
- Ecuador’s Strong Squad: Led by Enner Valencia, who is nearing the 100-cap milestone, and the young but experienced Moises Caicedo, Ecuador’s lineup looks balanced and ready for the challenge.
Team News
Chile:
- Alexis Sanchez, Chile’s talisman, is a doubt for this match after not even making the bench in the loss to Paraguay.
- Fabian Hormazabal, Marcelo Morales, and Marcelino Nunez remain sidelined, further weakening Chile’s midfield options.
- The experienced Arturo Vidal returned to the lineup last week, earning his 145th cap and providing much-needed leadership.
Ecuador:
- Missing their wing-back duo of Angelo Preciado and Jhoanner Chavez, but Pervis Estupinan is expected to start and bring stability to the backline.
- Jeremy Sarmiento has been left out due to limited game time at Burnley, while Alan Minda and Leonardo Campana are also unavailable.
- Enner Valencia is close to reaching his 100th cap, while Moises Caicedo continues to be a vital part of Ecuador’s midfield engine.
What to Expect
Chile will be desperate to capitalise on their home advantage and secure valuable points to stay in the qualifying race. With their defence looking vulnerable and a growing list of injuries, their attack will need to be more clinical if they are to overcome Ecuador’s disciplined defence.
For Ecuador, this match presents an opportunity to further cement their place in the top two. Their strong defence and in-form squad will be tough for Chile to break down, even in Santiago.
As the qualification race reaches its crucial stages, this encounter between Chile and Ecuador promises to be a fascinating and intense battle.