The goals, minute by minute
No goals and no red cards.
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Ecuador (23rd FIFA) vs Curaçao (82nd FIFA, debutant)
Level of the teams
- Ecuador: a very solid defense (Caicedo, Pacho, Hincapié) and a young European-level squad. Clear favorite and a contender to advance.
- Curaçao: the least populous nation to reach a World Cup, physical and eager, but well below in pedigree.
Key factors
- Huge gap in ranking and squad in Ecuador's favor.
- Ecuador needs a win to secure qualification.
- Curaçao will bet on defending and limiting the damage.
Prediction
Most likely result: 2-0 Ecuador (alternative: 3-0 Ecuador)
- Ecuador win: 80%
- Draw: 15%
- Curaçao win: 5%
Player to watch: Moisés Caicedo, Ecuador's engine in both boxes.
Final verdict, Confidence: high
Ecuador is far superior and should win comfortably. Barring a historic upset, it will control the game against a limited Curaçao.