USMNT vs Ecuador Lineups, Injuries & Predictions

Christian Pulisic’s availability remains uncertain after he missed recent training sessions, while Antonee Robinson and Alex Zendejas are also dealing with fitness issues. Tyler Adams is absent for personal reasons, and key players such as Gio Reyna, Sergiño Dest, and Ricardo Pepi were not called up.

Ecuador, on the other hand, will be without Moisés Caicedo and Piero Hincapié, but still boasts a strong defensive line with Willian Pacho and Pervis Estupiñán. Teenage prodigy Kendry Páez could feature prominently behind veteran striker Enner Valencia.

Expected Starting Lineups

USMNT

• Goalkeeper: M. Freese
• Defenders: C. Richards, T. Ream, Carter-Vickers
• Midfielders: A. Freeman, W. McKennie, C. Roldan, M. Arfstein
• Wingers: C. Pulisic, T. Weah
• Forward. F. Balogun

Ecuador

• Goalkeeper: H. Galíndez
• Defenders: Preciado, J. Ordonez, W. Pacho, P. Estupinan
• Midfielders: Alcívar, Franco, Vite, Angulo
• Forwards: K. Páez, E. Valencia

Predictions for USMNT vs. Ecuador

The USMNT is the favorite to win, but many previews predict a draw. With Ecuador missing Caicedo and Hincapié, Pochettino will likely focus on quick transitions from midfield to attack while shifting some of the creative responsibility away from Pulisic—who isn’t fully fit and could either miss the game or start on the bench.

Diego Luna could earn a spot in the starting lineup if Pochettino decides to overload the right side of Ecuador’s defense. This tactic would limit left-back Pervis Estupiñán’s involvement and likely reduce Pacho’s impact as well, since the left-footed defender usually operates on the right side of the back line.