Ecuador's Beccacece brushes off travel delays & underdog tag ahead of Mexico clash

Ecuador advanced from the ‌group stage after a 2-1 comeback win ‌over Germany, having earned one point from ‌their opening two matches. They face a Mexico side who won all three group ‌games, scoring six goals without ⁠conceding.

"Predictions were burned ‌a long time ago," Beccacece said. "They counted us ​out ... Predictions in football don't exist, what exists is what happens ​on the pitch."

Ecuador endured a nine-hour travel day ahead of Tuesday's match. "The ⁠team had planned ​to arrive at 5 p.m. However, we arrived at 8:20 p.m. We don't know the reason for the delay," Beccacece ‌said.

Despite the logistical issues, the coach declined to use the journey as an excuse. "We go, we compete, and we play - no complaints or excuses. I am grateful. We might have tired features, but how could I be upset about being in a World Cup?" he ‌added.

The Azteca Stadium's high altitude and ​a hostile home crowd add to ‌Ecuador's challenge in breaking down Mexico's defence.

"Mexico has a great fortress in this mythical stadium ... Things are always difficult for us, so we take it ⁠as a beautiful ⁠challenge," Beccacece said.