Ecuador hosts Brazil in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in the CONMEBOL region.

Through six matches of qualifying, Ecuador is surprisingly tied atop the CONMEBOL standings with 13 points. A win against Brazil would be pivotal in the nation’s hopes of qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and an experienced squad will look to emerge victorious in Quito. Imposing goalkeeper Alexander Dominguez will start, with Walter Ayovi, Juan Carlos Paredes, Gabriel Achilier, and Arturo Mina options in defense. Antonio Valencia will lead the midfield, where he will likely start alongside Christian Noboa, Jefferson Montero, with the fourth spot up for grabs. In attack, Enner Valencia should line up with Felipe Caicedo. Brazil, fresh off of the nation’s first Olympic gold medal in men’s soccer, could start Weverton, the goalkeeper from that tournament, but will likely opt for Alisson instead. In defense, Dani Alves and Filipe Luis will play on the flanks, with Joao Miranda and Marquinhos the strongest center backs. Casemiro will anchor the midfield, with Lucas Lima, Willian, Renato Augusto, and Philippe Coutinho also likely seeing action. Neymar will lead the line and look to find the back of the net for his nation, which troublingly sits in sixth in the qualifying table. The altitude in Quito will make life difficult for both offenses, and under 2.5 goals will likely be scored. Ecuador should do just enough to stay atop the standings with a 1-0 victory.