Our prediction for this World Cup 2026 match:
Peru will look to build on a hard-fought 1-0 win over Colombia when they take on Ecuador at Estadio Nacional de Lima on Wednesday morning. La Blanquirroja were more than fortunate to beat los Cafeteros in Baranquilla as James Rodriguez and Co. failed to turn their dominance into goals. Peru are eager to retain their spot in top four, but the game against Ecuador will be anything but a walk in the park for the hosts.
Both Paolo Guerrero and Jefferson Farfan have been left out of the squad, and, as a result, a man to watch in the home team will be Christian Cueva, who provided an assists for Edison Flores in the triumph over Colombia. La Tricolor, on the other hand, came from behind to share the spoils with Brazil in their last qualifier. Even though goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez misses out through suspension, we are tempted to put our money on draw as the two teams seem to be evenly matched.
Highlighted Player (Carlos Zambrano):
Carlos Zambrano is a 26-year-old Peruvian footballer who represents Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. The talented centre back is often credited to be one of the most promising defenders coming from his nation. Zambrano is well known for his strong tackling and excellent defensive organization capabilities.
Starting his youth career with Cantolao, he was quickly snapped up by Bundesliga team Schalke 04. He was a regular starter for their youth team and was soon made the captain. He was a cornerstone of their defence and was soon promoted to the first team of Schalke. In 2012, he signed on to play for Eintracht Frankfurt and has already represented them in more than 80 matches.
Zambrano made his senior debut with Peru in 2008. He was chosen to represent the team in 2011 Copa America only to see an injury clamp his participation. Zambrano has represented Peru in 43 games so far scoring four goals.
Highlighted Team (Ecuador):
Ecuador had endured difficult times in footballing terms having been considered to be one of the more struggling football nations in South America, but the Tri have managed to transform themselves into a team that can never be taken lightly at the international scene.
Ecuador has taken part in three of the 22 World Cups with 12 position they achieved in 2006 in Germany being their best result so far. La Tricolor head into Copa America Centenario tied at the top of CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifying table and their chances of making it through from group B have been increased with good results and alike performances.
Ivan Hurtado played for El Tri since 1992 to 2014 and former centre-back remains the most capped international with 168 games to his name. Ecuador captain Walter Ayovi is the active player with most games in the national team, while Felipe Caicedo with 19 goals is the top scorer of Gustavo Quinteros’ side.