On October 14, 2025, Mexico and Ecuador met at Estadio Akron in Zapopan, Mexico, in an international friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The match ended 1–1, as both teams showed moments of promise but could not find a second goal.
First Half: Early Lead, Penalty Leveler
In Mexico vs Ecuador, Mexico came out strongly and took the lead just 3 minutes in. A defensive lapse from Ecuador allowed Germán Berterame to break through and finish clinically.
Ecuador slowly grew into the game and earned a penalty after a foul inside the box. At around the 20th minute, Jordy Alcívar stepped up to convert from the spot and equalize.
After the equalizer, both teams exchanged attacks. Mexico tried to push forward through combinations and wing play, while Ecuador threatened on counterattacks. But neither side could break through again before halftime.
Second Half: Chances and Tension
The second half saw both sides make adjustments, bringing on fresh legs and looking for that decisive strike. Mexico maintained slightly more control, but Ecuador remained dangerous, especially on transitions.
One of the clearest chances came in the 86th minute, when Marcel Ruiz fired toward goal, but Ecuador’s goalkeeper made a strong save to deny him. (Source: Vavel)
In the final minutes, Ecuador pressed for a winner, using set pieces and quick breaks, but Mexico held firm defensively. After a few nervy moments, the whistle blew and the match ended 1–1. (Source: Vavel)
Match Facts & Numbers
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Final Score: Mexico 1 – 1 Ecuador
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Goals:
Mexico – Berterame (3′)
Ecuador – Alcívar (20′, penalty) -
Mexico’s winless run extended to four matches after the draw.
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This friendly was part of both teams’ preparations for the 2026 World Cup.
What It Means & What’s Next
For Mexico, the result is a mixed one. The early goal showed attacking intent, but conceding from a penalty and not finding a winner suggests lingering defensive fragilities. Their inability to win another match adds pressure as they head closer to hosting the next World Cup.
For Ecuador, the draw is respectable given the early setback. They showed resilience and composure to stay in the game. Their consistency in recent matches—drawing with the U.S. and qualifying strongly in CONMEBOL—gives them confidence.
Looking ahead, Mexico will aim to break its drought in November as it faces tougher test matches. Ecuador, likewise, will seek momentum and fine-tune tactics before the World Cup.
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