Mexico vs. Ecuador projected lineups, starting 11 for World Cup Round of 32 game in Mexico City

Mexico and Ecuador meet in the World Cup Round of 32 on Tuesday, with a place in the Round of 16 up for grabs.

El Tri advanced to the knockout stages after finishing top of Group A, giving the co-hosts a chance to continue their run in front of a passionate home support.

Ecuador progressed from Group E and now face a major test against one of the tournament hosts in a knockout-stage setting.

The Sporting News looks at the latest team news, injuries and projected starting lineups for both sides ahead of Tuesday's clash.

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Mexico projected starting 11

(4-3-3, right to left): L. Rangel (GK) — J. Sanchez, E. Alvarez, J. Vasquez, J. Gallardo — L. Romo, E. Lira, E. Gutierrez — R. Alvarado, R. Jimenez, J. Quinones

• Injured: None
• Suspended: None

Mexico are expected to recall several key players after rotating their squad for the 3-0 win over Czechia, having already secured top spot in Group A.

Raul Jimenez should return to lead the line, with Erik Lira also expected to come back into midfield alongside Luis Romo and Erick Gutierrez.

Gilberto Mora made his first World Cup start against Czechia at just 17 years old, but he is expected to return to the bench for the Round of 32. Julian Quinones should keep his place on the left after scoring twice during the tournament.

MORE: Ranking remaining World Cup teams 1-32

Ecuador projected starting 11

(4-4-2, right to left): H. Galindez (GK) — A. Franco, J. Ordonez, W. Pacho, P. Hincapie — J. Yeboah, M. Caicedo, P. Vite, K. Angulo — G. Plata, E. Valencia

• Injured: None
• Suspended: None

Ecuador are expected to name an unchanged lineup after securing their place in the Round of 32 with a 2-1 victory over Germany in their final group-stage match.

Head coach Sebastian Beccacece has no major injury concerns, with Moises Caicedo set to captain the side once again alongside Pedro Vite in central midfield.

Joel Ordonez and William Pacho should continue their partnership in central defence, while Gonzalo Plata and veteran striker Enner Valencia are expected to lead the attack as Ecuador look to upset the Group A winners.

Mexico vs. Ecuador prediction, betting odds

This has the potential to be one of the closest ties in the Round of 32. Mexico topped Group A and should benefit from having several key players well rested, while Ecuador arrive full of confidence after defeating Germany to secure their place in the knockout stages.

With Caicedo controlling the midfield and Valencia leading Ecuador's attack, Mexico will need to be at their best. However, home support and the return of Jimenez give El Tri a slight edge in what should be a tightly contested encounter.

• Score prediction: Mexico 2-1 Ecuador

Mexico vs. Ecuador World Cup rosters

Here are the players selected in Mexico and Ecuador's squads for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All ages, clubs and international caps are correct as of the squads being announced in May 2026.

Mexico World Cup roster

MORE: A complete breakdown of Mexico's 2026 World Cup squad

Head coach: Javier Aguirre

Ecuador World Cup roster

Head coach: Sebastian Beccacece

Where to watch Mexico vs. Ecuador

This match will be broadcast nationally on Fox in the United States with streaming options available on its dedicated platforms.

The best place to catch the match is on streaming service fubo, with new customers able to sign up for a FREE trial.

Fubo offers a free trial for new subscribers, so you can try the service before you buy. Stream ESPN, ABC, CBS, Fox and 100+ top channels of live TV and sports without cable. (Participating plans only. Taxes and fees may apply.)

Here is how to watch the match in some of the other major territories: