4) Ecuador threw everything at the USA, but to no avail
The Tricolor although caused some screaming abdabs in the US hearts with their late surge, but couldn’t find the second goal that could’ve forced a penalty shoot-out.
Until the 65th minute, Ecuador were spending their time in the shadows of the Americans, and the game was all but over when Gyasi Zardes made it 2-0 for USA and almost put the game beyond reach. Whilst that should’ve knocked the stuffing out of them, Ecuador instead produced a late fightback that almost turned the game around.
Regaining control of the ball, the Latin-Americans pushed forward at full pelt and forced the US to claw back into the box. Captain Walter Ayovi set-up Arroyo from a free-kick, and Ecuador were half way there.
Quinteros’ men were suddenly in control of the match and Enner Valencia had two good chances to put Ecuador level, but headed wide. La Tri did not go down without a fight, but the problem was they woke up too late.
