For two successive World Cup qualifiers Ecuador have surprised people by pushing the likes of Argentina and Brazil for the top positions. Qualification for 2006 was a success in part to being unbeaten at home. Their away games weren't nearly as successful so it will be interesting to see how their form is in Germany.
Luis Suarez is another coach who likes to blend young talent with more experienced players. Already a hero in Ecuador (despite being a Colombian himself) he continually urges his team to improve on their achievements.
Group A will be tight with no team guaranteed to qualify. So if Ecuador can improve on their form away from home then they have as good a chance as any in that group to go further in the competition. [Latest Ecuador Squad News]