Moises Caicedo, the 24-year-old Chelsea star, has officially become the captain of the Ecuador national team, assuming the role from Enner Valencia, who stepped down during the World Cup. This transition was marked by an emotional ceremony attended by Valencia, who confirmed that Caicedo will lead the team for the remainder of their matches in the tournament.
Having advanced to the knockout stage, Ecuador is set to face Mexico on July 1 at 04:00, aiming for a spot in the round of 16. Under the guidance of coach Sebastian Beccacece, the team secured their progression from Group E, finishing third. The decisive match will take place in Mexico City, and a win could lead them to face England or the Democratic Republic of Congo in the next round.
Throughout the group stage, Ecuador’s journey was fraught with challenges. The team faced elimination after earning just one point from their first two matches, suffering a 0-1 loss to Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curaçao. However, a crucial 2-1 victory over Germany in their final group match ensured their advance to the knockout phase.
Caicedo wore the captain’s armband for the first time in the World Cup during the match against Germany, where both he and Valencia started in all three group stage games, although Valencia has yet to score in the tournament.
At just 24, Moises Caicedo brings experience to his new captaincy role. He previously captained Chelsea in two Premier League matches last season against Manchester United and Manchester City, both losses, and led the team to victory over Cardiff City in the quarter-finals of the EFL Cup, as well as triumphing against Charlton Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup. Additionally, he had already captained Ecuador in a friendly against New Zealand in November 2025.
