Venezuela has been making waves in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With a strong start that includes a historic draw against Brazil and a 3-0 victory over Chile, the Vinotinto find themselves in a promising position to qualify for their first ever World Cup. Sitting in fourth place, level on points with Brazil and Uruguay, Venezuela has collected seven points in four matches.

Their upcoming match against Ecuador is crucial for their campaign. A win would further solidify their position while a loss could drop them down the standings. Despite missing key players like Jhon Murillo, Josef Martinez, and Juan Pablo Anor due to injuries, Venezuela will look to their top scorer, Salomon Rondon, to lead the charge.

Ecuador, on the other hand, have started the qualifiers with a three-point penalty for fielding an ineligible player. After winning two matches and drawing one, they have made up ground to sit in the sixth and final automatic qualifying spot from CONMEBOL. However, injuries to Enner Valencia, Moises Ramirez, and Pervis Estupinan pose a challenge for them in this crucial match.

The game between Venezuela and Ecuador will take place on Thursday, November 16, at the Estadio Monumental de Maturin in Venezuela. Fans can catch the action through a subscription to Fanatiz. With both teams in good form, this match promises to be an intense battle as they fight for a spot in the World Cup. Will Venezuela continue their dream run or can Ecuador pull off an upset?