Guayaquil, May 24: Amid rising violence, economic troubles and widespread insecurity, Ecuadorians are pinning their hopes on football as the country prepares for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.
Despite the challenges back home, optimism surrounds the national team after Ecuador finished second in the South American qualifiers behind world champions Argentina, losing only twice in 18 matches.Fans believe this could be Ecuador’s best-ever World Cup campaign, surpassing their Round of 16 finish in 2006. Supporters across Guayaquil have rallied behind stars such as Piero Hincapie, Moises Caicedo and Willian Pacho, whose success in Europe has further boosted confidence.Football, however, has not escaped the country’s violence. Several local players were killed last year, including former Ecuador international Mario Pineida, who was shot in Guayaquil in December.Yet, despite the fear and instability, football World Cupcontinue to offer hope to young children dreaming of becoming professionals. (AP)
