Ecuador qualified well for the World Cup, finishing fourth in the South American standings and holding Argentina and Brazil to draws.
Over the last few years they have opted to blood new players and they head to Qatar with one of the youngest squads at the tournament.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ecuador…
Coach: Gustavo Alfaro. The 60-year-old Argentine has an extensive coaching CV that includes several clubs in Argentina, including Boca Juniors, as well as Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia. He took over Ecuador 30 days before their first World Cup qualifier.
Captain: Enner Valencia. Remember him, West Ham fans? The 32-year-old now plays for Fenerbahce.
Star player: Moises Caicedo. The midfielder has impressed for Brighton and is already being linked with a big move.
One to watch: Gonzalo Plata. The 22-year-old winger has been tipped for big things in the future.
World ranking: 44th
Odds: 250/1
Best thing about them: Their willingness to blood young players and give them a chance on a big stage.
Worst thing about them: Their strength could also be their weakness. How much will a lack of experience hinder them?
Their prospects in three words: Potential dark horses.
Fixtures (all times GMT)
November 20 vs Qatar (4pm)
November 25 vs Netherlands (4pm)
November 29 vs Senegal (3pm)
Squad in full
Goalkeepers: Alexander Dominguez, Hernan Galindez, Moises Ramirez.
Defenders: Robert Arboleda, Xavier Arreaga, Pervis Estupinan, Piero Hincapie, William Pacho, Diego Palacios, Jackson Porozo, Angelo Preciado, Felix Torres.
Midfielders: Moises Caicedo, Jose Cifuentes, Alan Franco, Carlos Gruezo, Jhegson Mendez, Ayrton Preciado, Jeremy Sarmiento
Forwards: Michael Estrada, Romario Ibarra, Angel Mena, Gonzalo Plata, Djorkaeff Reasco, Kevin Rodriguez, Enner Valencia
