Mexico vs. Ecuador: Round of 32 Clash Underway After Weather Delay

We are underway at the Estadio Azteca after a long weather delay, with both Mexico and Ecuador finally getting their knockout campaign started. It’s a cautious opening from both sides in front of a tense crowd, with neither team taking early risks as they settle into the rhythm of this high-stakes Round of 32 clash.

Ecuador manage to get a rare spell of control deep in the Mexico half, just taking the sting out of an otherwise relentless start from the hosts. The crowd reacts loudly as La Tri keep the ball for a short period, but it’s been Mexico doing most of the pressing and setting the tempo so far.

Gonzalo Plata does brilliantly down the right, beating his man and creating space before Ecuador surge forward in numbers. John Yeboah takes over the move, driving into the box and unleashing a left-footed snap shot that clips the outside of the near post. Raúl Rangel may have gotten a touch on it, but play continues with no corner given as Ecuador come close to striking back.