Key Battles That Will Shape Ecuador’s World Cup Clash with Switzerland

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: June 14, 2014

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Ecuador is back in the World Cup after missing out four years ago, and its first challenge is Switzerland. The match will take place on Sunday in Brazil's capital, Brasilia.

Reinaldo Rueda, currently Ecuador's manager, took Honduras to South Africa in 2010. Honduras wasn't able to score a single goal during the tournament, as Rueda's tactics focused more on defense and the team’s main striker was injured.

They did, however, manage to draw a game. That draw came against Switzerland—the last game of the group stage—and it left the European squad with no chance of advancing to the second round.

Ottmar Hitzfeld is taking Switzerland to its second World Cup in a row, and he will certainly be looking to get even with his opponent.

Hitzfeld had a dream start with the Swiss in South Africa, defeating the European champions and eventual World Cup winner Spain, but they were then eliminated in the group stage. The German-born manager hopes to triumph in his third try with the Swiss after disappointing in 2010 and failing to qualify for Euro 2012.

Rueda vs. Hitzfeld may not be a mainstream battle between coaches, but it's building its own history. The following key matchups will shape the opening game between these two national teams:



Christian Noboa has become essential for Ecuador's midfield. He plays in the middle, containing rivals as they transition in the midfield zone. He is also vital to starting Ecuador's attack.

Noboa will fight for control of the midfield against the Swiss central midfielder Gokhan Inler.

Control of the central midfield area doesn't necessarily mean that the team with the most possession will win the battle.

Ecuador is designed to counter-attack, and it isn't likely that Rueda will change strategies against Switzerland. Noboa's personal battle will be won if he can contain Inler's influence on the Swiss offensive...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - International Football

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