Ecuador, Soccer’s Best Kept Secret
By Kurtis Ottey
Photo: API
Ecuador! Without a doubt one of the hottest countries in the world with some of the greatest sceneries you wouldn’t believe existed. This South American destination is home to a lot of things including one of the most exciting/energetic soccer leagues the world has ever scene. A league responsible for creating world class talents the likes of Enner Valencia and Brighton & Hove Albion’s breakout talent Pervis Estupiñán. With a fan base providing passion putting that of the English Premier League’s to shame.
The Liga Pro Ecuador Serie A is the top professional soccer league in Ecuador and has a long and storied history dating back to the late 19th century. Over the years, the Liga Pro has produced some of the most talented players and exciting teams in Ecuador, and it has become an important part of the country's soccer culture.
The Liga Pro was formed in 1926, and since then it has undergone numerous changes and expansions. The league is currently made up of 12 teams, and it operates on a promotion and relegation system, with the bottom two teams being relegated to the second division and the top two teams being promoted to the Liga Pro.
César Muñoz/API
One of the most notable aspects of the Liga Pro is its intense rivalries. Some of the biggest and most passionate rivalries in the league include the "Clasico del Astillero," which is a matchup between the two biggest clubs in the port city of Guayaquil, and the "Superclasico," which is a matchup between the two biggest clubs in Quito, the capital city of Ecuador. These rivalries are characterized by fierce competition and passionate fan support, and they are an important part of the Liga Pro's identity.
In addition to its rivalries, the Liga Pro has also produced some of the greatest moments in Ecuadorian soccer history. One of the most memorable moments came in 2002, when LDU Quito won the Copa Libertadores, the most prestigious club competition in South America. This achievement was a major milestone for Ecuador, as it was the first time that a team from the country had won the Copa Libertadores.
Another memorable moment in the Liga Pro's history came in 2016, when Barcelona Sporting Club won the Copa Sudamericana, the second-most prestigious club competition in South America. This achievement was significant as it marked the first time that a team from Ecuador had won the Copa Sudamericana.
Liga Pro Ecuador Serie A is a long-standing and important part of Ecuadorian soccer. It has produced some of the most talented players and exciting teams in the country, and it has a rich history of intense rivalries and memorable moments. Despite its ups and downs, the Liga Pro remains an important part of Ecuador's soccer culture and is a source of pride and joy for fans and players alike.
