Ecuador's Final Preparations in Madrid
The Ecuadorian national football team has officially arrived in Europe, initiating their crucial preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Under the guidance of head coach Sebastián Beccacece, the team has commenced their training camp in Madrid, Spain. This marks the beginning of a significant tour during the FIFA international window in March, which serves as a critical rehearsal ahead of the World Cup.
With the coaching staff established since March 19, logistical arrangements have been meticulously organized. Ecuador will utilize the training facilities of Leganés Football Club and the NH Collection hotel as their concentrated base. The team is gearing up to refine their strategies and skills before the global tournament.
The roster currently includes 34 players, with the final selection expected to be finalized on Monday, March 23. Some players have already begun training as of Sunday, further preparing for the matches ahead.
Upcoming Matches and Tactical Focus
One of the key fixtures on Ecuador's schedule is set for March 31, where they will face the Netherlands in Amsterdam. Coach Beccacece revealed that the decision to call up 34 players was made in collaboration with Francisco Egas, president of the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF), to evaluate three players for each position before the final roster of 26 is announced on June 1.
Beccacece stated, "We have almost 20 established players. The remaining six spots will be determined by May." Star players such as Moisés Caicedo, Piero Hincapié, Willian Pacho, and Enner Valencia have already secured their places in the squad, which will contend in Group E of the World Cup against formidable teams like Germany, Ivory Coast, and Curaçao.
A primary tactical focus during their training in Madrid will be set pieces, with the coach emphasizing that nearly 30% of the team's goals stem from this aspect. He remarked, "If we improve this percentage, we will make a significant leap in quality for the World Cup." In light of recent developments, Jhon Mercado has joined the training sessions with the national team.
However, the day brought some disappointment with the news of Leonardo Campana's injury. The New England Revolution forward sustained a hamstring injury during an MLS match on Saturday and left the field in tears. In response to this setback, Beccacece has urgently called up Elías Legendre, a promising 17-year-old forward from Rennes in France, who previously shone during the 2025 South American U-17 Championship, giving him a significant opportunity to contribute to the senior national team as part of their generational transition.
As reported by extra.ec.
