Brazil, the five-time world champions, are set to face Ecuador in a pivotal FIFA World Cup 2026 CONMEBOL qualifier on Saturday at the Couto Pereira Stadium in Paraná, Brazil. This match holds significant importance for both teams as they aim to secure their place in the global tournament.
Brazil, currently in sixth place in the qualification table with a disappointing record of two wins, three losses, and one draw, are desperately in need of a turnaround. Coach Dorival Junior, who took the reins at the start of the year, has implemented changes by excluding eight players from the Copa America squad. He has also introduced a new talent, 17-year-old striker Estevao, who will be joining Chelsea next year from Palmeiras, making his debut for the national team.
However, the absence of star player Neymar Jr continues to be a major concern. Neymar is still recovering from an ACL injury sustained during a World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay in October 2023. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Brazilian team.
Meanwhile, Ecuador, currently sitting in fifth place with a record of three wins, one loss, and two draws, are seeking to maintain their position despite a three-point deduction for using a falsified document in the previous World Cup qualification cycle. The Ecuadorian team is ready to challenge Brazil with their confirmed starting lineup:
Ecuador Starting XI:
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Hernán Galíndez (GK)
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Félix Torres
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Piero Hincapié
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Pervis Estupiñán
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William Pacho
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Kevin Rodríguez
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Moisés Caicedo
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Jeremy Sarmiento
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Jhegson Méndez
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Alan Franco
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Enner Valencia
The match is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with Brazil aiming to bounce back from their disappointing Copa America exit and Ecuador determined to maintain their strong position in the qualification standings.
Unfortunately, the match will not be televised in India. However, fans can stay up-to-date with live updates through Sportstar’s live blog of the game. The match is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 AM IST on September 7th, Saturday, at the Couto Pereira Stadium in Paraná, Brazil.
