A group-stage exit in 2002 had been a sobering lesson. Ecuador returned in 2006 with renewed purpose. Under Luis Fernando Suárez, they were ready to write the next chapter.
Ecuador's tournament was a mixed affair, with promising moments offset by results that ultimately cut their journey short.
Ecuador showed enough quality to navigate a challenging group stage, though not without the occasional stumble. In the knockout rounds, they were narrowly knocked out by England in the Round of 16. The narrowest of defeats against England ended what had been a promising tournament run.
2won2lost
5scored4conceded
Failed to score in 2 of 4 matches.
Carlos Tenorio led Ecuador's attack with 2 goals at the 2006 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Delgado, both with 2.
Conceded in only 2 of 4 matches
The tactical mind behind Ecuador's 2006 campaign. A Colombian at the helm leading Ecuador at his first World Cup.
Ecuador employed an attacking style, but their lack of defensive solidity hindered progress. Luis Fernando Suárez's team had a solid start with victories over Poland and Costa Rica before succumbing to Germany.
