World Cup Preview - Group E - Ecuador

Nickname: “La Tri (Tricolor)”

Absurd FIFA ranking: 28th

Coach: Colombian gaffer Reinaldo Rueda

Game Schedule:
June 15 – Ecuador v. Switzerland (Brasilia, 12:00 p.m. EST, ABC)
June 20 – Ecuador v. Honduras (Curitiba, 6:00 p.m., ESPN)
June 25 – Ecuador v. France (Rio, 4:00 p.m., ESPN)

Prospects: Ecuador were a real dark horse side in CONMEBOL qualifying this time around, finishing fourth and forcing Uruguay into a play-off with Jordan. True, much of this was due to their excellent home form in high altitude venues where they have a tremendous advantage. However, there is no denying their intense attacking style, which could surprise a lot of spectators and opponents at Brasil 2014.

Key Player: Skipper Antonio Valencia has been in rotten form for Manchester United but he is a different player when he pulls on the Ecuador shirt. His marauding down the right side is the key to Ecuador's success this summer.

Youngster to watch: Stuttgart's 19 year-old midfielder Carlos Gruezo is one for the future.

Who Will Get the Goals: Ecuador usually line up in a 4-5-1 with Felipe Caicedo up front alone. His goals will have to be enough for La Tri.

Who Will Get the Cards: 34 year-old left back Walter Ayovi has lost a step or two.

Funniest Name: Defender Jorge Guagua.

Prediction: Just about edging out Switzerland to escape Group E, followed by a quick exit to Argentina in the Round of 16.