Enner Valencia has stepped down as Ecuador captain midway through the World Cup, with Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo taking over the armband
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo has been appointed as Ecuador’s new captain midway through the World Cup, taking over from Enner Valencia, who has stepped down from the role.
Ecuador are now preparing to take on Mexico in the round of 32, having secured third place in Group E.
Ecuador booked their place in the first knockout phase of the World Cup following a dramatic win against Germany in their final group match.
Valencia featured from the start in all three group fixtures for Ecuador but is yet to find the back of the net in the tournament, while Caicedo has also been a consistent starter for his nation in North America.
During an emotional presentation alongside Valencia, Caicedo was unveiled as Ecuador’s new captain and will lead the side for the remainder of their World Cup campaign.
Ecuador faced the prospect of early elimination from the World Cup, having collected just one point from their opening two matches.
A 1-0 loss to the Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curacao left Sebastian Beccacece’s team at risk of being knocked out of the tournament.
Nevertheless, Ecuador claimed a 2-1 triumph over Germany in their concluding Group E encounter to clinch third position in the group, earning them a round of 32 clash with Mexico on Tuesday evening, scheduled to take place in Mexico City.
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It was during the victory over Germany that Caicedo wore the captain’s armband for Ecuador for the first time in the tournament, having previously skippered the side in their friendly triumph over New Zealand back in November.
There is a real possibility that Caicedo and Ecuador could come up against England at the World Cup, where a win over Mexico would set up a last-16 clash against either the Three Lions or DR Congo.
Caicedo is no stranger to the captain’s armband, having worn it for Chelsea on two occasions in the Premier League last season, during defeats to Manchester United and Manchester City in April.
The 24-year-old also led Chelsea out as captain in their quarter-final Carabao Cup win over Cardiff City, as well as the FA Cup third round victory against Charlton Athletic.
