Caicedo, Pacho Headline Ecuador’s Squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Posted : 01 June 2026

Ecuador have unveiled their squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with star midfielder Moises Caicedo and newly crowned UEFA Champions League winner Willian Pacho expected to play key roles in the nation's bid for a successful tournament.

National team coach Sebastián Beccacece has selected a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents as Ecuador prepare for the competition in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Among the notable inclusions is defender Piero Hincapie, who recently featured in Arsenal's Champions League final defeat.

Veteran striker Enner Valencia will also be part of the squad, making his third appearance at a World Cup finals. The 36-year-old remains one of Ecuador’s most influential players and brings valuable tournament experience to a relatively youthful group.

Ecuador have been drawn in Group E and will begin their campaign against Ivory Coast in Philadelphia on June 14. They will then face tournament debutants Curacao in Kansas City before concluding the group stage against Germany in New Jersey on June 25.

La Tri will be aiming to advance beyond the group stage after their disappointing exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where they failed to reach the knockout rounds despite an encouraging start.

The squad includes experienced goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez, alongside defenders such as Pervis Estupiñán, Hincapié, Pacho, Joel Ordóñez, Félix Torres and Angelo Preciado. The defensive unit is widely regarded as one of the team's strengths heading into the tournament.

In midfield, Caicedo is expected to be the driving force, supported by players including Alan Franco, Pedro Vite, Kendry Páez, Nilson Angulo, Gonzalo Plata and John Yeboah. The selection combines established internationals with several young prospects who have impressed at club level.

Up front, Enner Valencia will lead the attack alongside Kevin Rodríguez, Jordy Caicedo and Yaimar Medina as Ecuador seek to make a significant impact on the global stage.

With a balanced squad featuring Champions League winners, Premier League stars and promising young talent, Ecuador will believe they have the quality required to challenge for a place in the knockout rounds and potentially exceed expectations at the 2026 World Cup.

Caicedo, Pacho Headline Ecuador’s Squad for 2026 FIFA World Cup

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