Ecuador Coach Ahead of Round of 16: "Predictions Were Burned Long Ago"

Ecuador's national team coach, Sebastian Becaccese, has dismissed concerns about travel fatigue and his team's underdog status ahead of their Round of 16 clash against Mexico at the World Cup. Becaccese's squad secured their spot in the knockout stages with a 2-1 comeback victory over Germany in Group E, finishing second with five points. Mexico, one of the tournament's co-hosts, won all three of their group stage matches without conceding a goal and enters the encounter as the clear favorite.

"The predictions were burned long ago. They had written us off... Predictions don't exist in football; the only thing that matters is what happens on the pitch," stated the Argentine specialist.

Before tomorrow's match, scheduled for 4:00 AM Bulgarian time, the Ecuadorian team endured a nine-hour journey from Columbus, Ohio, their training camp, to Mexico City, where the game will be played.

"We go, we play, and we fight – no complaints or excuses. I am grateful. We might be tired, but how can I be unhappy? We are at a World Cup," Becaccese remarked.

The Estadio Azteca is a true fortress for the Mexicans, but at least the stadium's high altitude of approximately 2,250 meters won't be a significant issue for the Ecuadorians, whose capital, La Paz, is situated even higher at around 3,650 meters, making them accustomed to such conditions.

"This stadium is a great fortress for Mexico... but things are always tough for us, so we embrace it as another wonderful challenge," the coach explained.

Should they succeed, Ecuador will face the winner of the match between England and DR Congo in the round of 16 stage.