Ecuador

Ecuador have grown into a regular World Cup qualifier, powered by altitude-fueled home form in Quito and a steady production line of athletic, technically sharp young talent. La Tri represent a proud, mountainous footballing nation that consistently competes with South America's traditional giants.

Ecuador have qualified for four World Cups, in 2002, 2006, 2014, and 2022. Their best run came in 2006 in Germany, when they reached the round of 16 after group-stage wins over Poland and Costa Rica, before falling to England. Ecuador opened the 2022 tournament with a win over hosts Qatar but narrowly missed the knockouts. With another berth secured for 2026, La Tri continue to establish themselves as a fixture on the world stage.