Mexico aims to recover from their recent defeat as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup, where they will be one of the hosts. Today, they will play against Ecuador, a team seen as a potential surprise contender in the tournament.
In their last match, Mexico showed defensive issues, letting Colombia score four goals. While Aguirre’s team created a few chances, their offensive play was lacking, resulting in a scoreless game that added to the disappointment.
Ecuador comes into this match in good form, having finished their CONMEBOL qualifying campaign strongly, finishing second with 29 points after defeating Argentina, the defending world champions. Their solid qualifying showing has marked them as a reliable team from South America. They also recently drew with the United States, showcasing their balance and resilience.
In their history, Mexico has generally performed better in this matchup, winning 14 out of 24 meetings, while Ecuador has four wins and six draws. In their last five games, however, Mexico has only managed one win, with Ecuador winning two and the other two matches ending in draws.
Santiago Gimenez of Mexico
Mexico expected lineup vs Ecuador
For this match, head coach Javier Aguirre confirmed he will implement several changes after the 4–0 loss to Colombia on October 10. “I’m going to make seven or eight changes,” Aguirre said. “Players must understand that if they don’t execute what’s asked of them, they won’t have a place here.”
Aguirre’s expected starting XI: Luis Malagon; Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes, Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo; Erick Lira, Marcel Ruiz; Diego Lainez, Orbelin Pineda, Alexis Vega; Santiago Gimenez.
Ecuador expected lineup vs Mexico
Head coach Sebastian Beccacece mentioned that the team is getting better at adapting to his tactics. He assured that Kendry Paez, Nilson Angulo, and Pervis Estupinan—who had minor injuries against the United States—are fit and ready to play. However, Ecuador will be missing key players Moises Caicedo and Piero Hincapie, as Caicedo is recovering from an issue with Chelsea, and Hincapie is still out due to injury.
Ecuador’s expected lineup: Hernan Galindez; Angelo Preciado, Joel Ordonez, Willian Pacho, Pervis Estupinan (or Yaimar Medina); Alan Franco, Jordy Alcivar, Pedro Vite, Kendry Paez; John Yeboah, Enner Valencia.