Team News
The biggest blow for Ecuador coach Reinaldo Rueda is that Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia will be unavailable after sustaining a hamstring injury during a recent Europa League outing against Ajax Amsterdam. While only two European-based players were called up by Rueda, seven players ply their trade in the Mexican First Division, with the remaining players have been selected from the domestic competition.
Meanwhile, Honduras boss Luis Suarez will field a close to full-strength side in a match which they will take very seriously. One player who will be missing, however, is defender Edgard Alvarez, who wasn't released for the friendly match by his Serie A club Palermo.
Form
Ecuador come into the game in good form, after having won six of their last seven matches. The last time they met opposition from outside South America was last October, when they defeated the United States 1-0 in Harrison.
The Ecuadorians have also been in decent form in the South American World Cup qualifiers, after having been eliminated from the Copa America in the group stage, after a 4-2 loss to Brazil in Cordoba.
Rivals Honduras have also been in good form, after having won their past two games 2-1 and 2-0, against Jamaica and Serbia, respectively. Their last loss came against the United States in October in Miami.
Players to Watch
Christian Benitez - The Club America striker is one of the most dangerous players Ecuador have produced in years, and his speed and determination should give the visitors plenty of problems.
Wilson Palacios - The recent Stoke City signing is one of Honduras' most well-known players, and his Premier League experience should help his side against difficult opponents.
Prediction
Ecuador are almost unbeatable when playing at home, and should breeze past an ever-improving Honduras outfit. The Ecuadorians should dominate their opponents, in what is expected to be a very open contest.
The Verdict:
