Man, Ecuador got hit with some rough injuries before the Brazil match. It kinda sucked for their fans because Enner Valencia, who already had 5 goals in qualifying, was a maybe with a thigh problem, and then Leonardo Campana (hamstring) plus Gonzalo Plata (knee) were just straight up out. Every time I see Valencia missing or not at 100%, I get nervous for Ecuador because he’s basically their top threat. Without him being totally fit, the attack just feels a lot less dangerous. Campana being out too makes it worse, since he’s a solid option up front, and Plata's skill and speed can change a game in a second when he's on the field. I’ve noticed whenever Ecuador can play their best guys together, they look way more dangerous, especially going forward. Missing three important players really messes with the coach’s options and probably made them play it safer than normal. You gotta feel bad for Ecuador with this timing, but honestly, that’s just part of soccer sometimes.