Chelsea superstar Moises Caicedo’s World Cup campaign will continue into the knockout stages after an incredible win against Germany.
The South Americans were in trouble after taking just one point from their first two group games, which was an underwhelming draw with Curacao.
Caicedo’s performance was ridiculed by his own national media after that game, however he led the charge as a spirited Ecuador took the fight to Germany.
Ecuadorian media react as Moises Caicedo’s Ecuador beat Germany at World Cup
They quickly brought themselves back level after going behind in controversial circumstances, with Caicedo at his best again when it came to winning the ball back.
The Blues midfielder also created a fantastic chance for teammate Gonzalo Plata, who later found the net to give his nation the lead.
Ecuador kept their World Cup hopes alive after many had tipped them for a dark horse run in the competition, including Eden Hazard.
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Ecuadorian outlet Primicias singled out Caicedo for praise for how often he won the ball back for his side as they produced an upset result.
They said: “The national team played their best match of this World Cup, because the individual performances that everyone expected finally arrived. Moisés Caicedo threw himself to the ground for every ball he could, Pedro Vite covered the entire field and was always available to receive and win back possession.
“The Ecuadorian team was united, dedicated, and selfless. No one complained. Everyone chased down every ball as if it were their last. No one wanted to leave the World Cup, and the players kept their promise. Despite having everything against them, the Tricolor pulled off a historic upset.”
As well as winning the ball back for his side, Caicedo played a key role in keeping his side on the attack, despite the calibre of their opponents.
The Chelsea man made 14 passes into the final third, and despite their lack of creativity they eventually proved too much for their opponents with their high pressing.
Caicedo was crucial to everything his nation did, and now he will be preparing for a World Cup Round of 32 tie.
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