Ecuador's World Cup 2026 campaign falters after draw with Curaçao

Ecuador entered the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a surprise contender, but after a 1‑0 defeat to Ivory Coast in their opening match they failed to secure a win against Curaçao, finishing the second group game in a goalless draw ("Ecuador 0‑0 Curaçao"). The point left the South American side on just one point after two fixtures, trailing group leaders Germany and still behind Ivory Coast and Curaçao in Group E.

With only one match remaining, Ecuador must defeat Germany to keep any mathematical chance of advancing to the knockout stage. The team’s defensive stalwart Willian Pacho and forward Moisés Caicedo will need to inspire a dramatic turnaround to resurrect their campaign.