The USA will play against Ecuador in a 2025 international friendly, preparing for the 2026 World Cup, where they will be one of the host nations. These friendlies are vital as they may influence the FIFA rankings and seeding for the tournament.
[Watch USA vs Ecuador live in the USA on Fubo]
The USA has already secured a spot in the World Cup as hosts, which is why they are not participating in the current Concacaf World Cup Qualifiers. However, this match provides a key opportunity to evaluate the team’s form ahead of the main event.
Head coach Mauricio Pochettino is likely to put out his strongest lineup against La Tri. The Americans triumphed in their last friendly against Japan with a 2-0 victory, giving the team some relief and helping Pochettino avoid what would have been his eighth loss in 18 matches as they prepare for 2026.
Ecuador approaches this game on a high note after an impressive World Cup Qualifying campaign, finishing second to Argentina. They lost only twice and allowed just five goals in 18 matches, ending the qualifiers with a notable victory over Argentina, showcasing their strong form.
Moises Caicedo of Ecuador
USA expected lineup vs Ecuador
The USA has a strong midfield and attacking lineup, with several players excelling in their overseas clubs. Christian Pulisic, a standout at AC Milan, is a crucial part of the attack and the team’s creative force.
Alongside him, Weston McKennie from Juventus and Folarin Balogun from Monaco add valuable experience and scoring ability. Pochettino’s likely starting XI is: Matt Freese; Alex Freeman, Chris Richards, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson; Tanner Tessmann, Cristian Roldan; Alejandro Zendejas, Weston McKennie, Christian Pulisic; Folarin Balogun.
Ecuador expected lineup vs USA
Ecuador enters this match in excellent form, noted for their solid defense and quick transitions. However, they will be missing three key players as they aim for a potential Pot 2 spot in the World Cup draw. Center-back Piero Hincapie is out due to an injury from Arsenal.
Midfielder Moises Caicedo and winger Gonzalo Plata are also unavailable for this matchup. A noteworthy inclusion in the squad is Botafogo goalkeeper Cristhian Loor, receiving a rare chance with the senior team.
Beccacece’s expected XI could be: Hernan Galindez; Joel Ordonez, Felix Torres, Willian Pacho, Pervis Estupinan; Angelo Preciado, Jordy Alcivar, Alan Franco, Pedro Vite; Nilson Angulo, Enner Valencia.