Ecuador treading new ground

Ecuador have won their last five straight World Cup qualifiers, including a hard fought victory over Brazil. If they continue their recent form, another giant killing performance is not out of the question.

A win at home against Argentina is all the more crucial, given that two of their other three games are away fixtures.

At home, 2800m above sea level, they remain undefeated. However, Ecuador's away form has been their weakness, so they need to capitalise on their high altitude home games.

Ecuador captain Alex Aguinaga has said 'We're so near and so far at the same time. Nothing is certain yet as there is still a long way to go.'

The World Cup Finals beckon, but can Ecuador dig deep enough to make that historical step?

15th August 2001