Venezuela vs Ecuador - World Cup Qualifier South America on November 16, 2023: Predicted outcome.

The qualification phase for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA is already in full swing, at least in South America. Several nations have expressed ambitions at the start of the qualifying phase, including the two now facing each other. Bookmakers' predictions for the Venezuela vs. Ecuador match indicate a favored position for the visitors. However, the situation is not as straightforward, partly because the home team has displayed commendable performances and is generally challenging to play against on their home turf. Venezuela aims for another surprise, focusing on delivering a solid defensive performance. Our Venezuela vs. Ecuador tip suggests that there will be fewer than 2.5 goals in the match.

Venezuela

Venezuela is not a nation that regularly harbors high hopes of participating in major tournaments, such as the World Cup. The start of the qualification phase for the 2026 tournament in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, however, has been promising. Fernando Batista's team boasts a decent squad depth, a quality seldom attributed to them in recent years.

The infusion of interesting young players has strengthened the team, complementing stalwarts like Tomas Rincon, Salomon Rondon, or Jefferson Soteldo. Additionally, Batista found a way to improve the once-vulnerable defense. In the first four games of the qualification phase, Venezuela conceded only two goals. Ranked 49th in the FIFA World Rankings, they recently secured a surprising 3-0 victory against Chile and a 1-1 draw in Brazil, with the only loss being the opener against Colombia. Both home qualification matches were won, highlighting their comfort on home soil, despite successful away friendlies this calendar year.

Ecuador

Much of what can be said about Venezuela applies to Ecuador as well. The team has shown solid progress and is even ranked higher than the hosts in the FIFA World Rankings. With players like Willian Pacho (Frankfurt), Piero Hincapie (Leverkusen), or Moises Caicedo (Chelsea), there is notable individual skill, particularly in defense, translating into effective on-field performances.

This is why a truly spectacular match is not expected. The odds of both teams scoring, with a value over 2.0 according to Bet365, speak volumes. Coach Felix Sanchez Bas often deploys a five-man defense, reflecting on-field solidity and effective execution of strategies.

Ecuador has conceded three goals in four World Cup qualification matches, with a loss to Argentina, a draw against Colombia, and victories against Uruguay and Bolivia. While it seems that teams like Chile or Peru have surpassed both these squads, there are still 14 matches to be played.

Head-to-head comparison record

They have faced each other 31 times, with Venezuela winning eleven and Ecuador fifteen matches, giving the guests a slightly better record. Ecuador also leads in goals with a score of 56-34. Notably, the last three games all resulted in home victories.

Betting Tips and Odds for Venezuela vs Ecuador Prediction

Venezuela and Ecuador are set for a captivating duel, with neither side likely to expose their defense or take unnecessary risks. After a solid start to the qualification phase, a draw would be a satisfactory outcome for both teams.

KEY-FACTS – Venezuela vs Ecuador TIPS:

1. - Venezuela conceded only two goals in four qualification games.
2. - Ecuador won five of the last seven matches.
3. - The guests conceded more than one goal only once this calendar year.

Considering these factors, our pre-match Venezuela vs. Ecuador prediction leans towards betting on fewer than 2.5 goals.