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World Cup captain quits role midway through tournament as Premier League star steps in
Jun 29 2026 15:47 · By Mark Wakefield/Sport Central Audience Writer · 121 Reads
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Chelsea star Moises Caicedo has been installed as Ecuador’s new captain midway through the World Cup , replacing Enner Valencia, who has stepped down from the role. Ecuador are currently preparing to face Mexico in the round of 32 stage of the tournament, having finished in third place in Group E.
Ecuador secured their spot in the first knockout round of the World Cup thanks to a dramatic victory over Germany in their final group game.
Valencia started all three group games for Ecuador but has yet to score his first goal of the tournament, while Caicedo has also been an ever-present starter for his country in North America.
In an emotional ceremony alongside Valencia, Caicedo was confirmed as Ecuador’s new captain and will wear the armband throughout the country’s remaining fixtures in the tournament.
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Ecuador were in danger of not reaching the knockout stages of the World Cup, having earned just a point from their opening two games.
A 1-0 defeat to the Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curacao left Sebastian Beccacece’s side in danger of being knocked out of the tournament.
However, Ecuador secured a 2-1 victory over Germany in their final Group E fixture to secure third place in the group, which is enough to set up a round of 32 match against Mexico on Tuesday night, which will take place in Mexico City.
It was during the win over Germany that Caicedo wore the captain’s armband for Ecuador for the first time in the tournament, having also been captain for the country’s friendly win over New Zealand back in November.
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There is a possibility that Caicedo and Ecuador could face England in the World Cup, where a victory over Mexico would set up a last-16 tie against either the Three Lions or DR Congo .
Caicedo already has experience of wearing the captain’s armband, having done so for Chelsea on two occasions in the Premier League last season, in defeats to Manchester United and Manchester City in April.
The 24-year-old midfielder was also captain for Chelsea’s win over Cardiff City in the quarter-final of the Carabao Cup, as well as the third round victory over Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup .
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