Paris Saint-Germain defender Willian Pacho has been named in Ecuador’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Ecuadorian Football Federation confirmed on Monday. The announcement comes shortly after Pacho secured a Ligue 1 title with PSG, marking his second league championship with the club.
Pacho will be joined in the squad by fellow defender Piero Hincapié, who also recently featured in a European final, and Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo. Other notable inclusions are former Strasbourg player Kendry Páez, and a host of players currently competing in leagues across South America and Europe. Ecuador has been drawn into Group E, where they will face Côte d’Ivoire, Curaçao, and Germany.
Pacho, 22, has established himself as a key player in the PSG backline since joining the club from Royal Antwerp in 2023. He made 34 appearances in Ligue 1 this season, contributing to the team’s dominant title-winning campaign. His performances have earned him recognition as one of the league’s most promising young defenders, and this World Cup call-up is a testament to his growing reputation.
The inclusion of Pacho, Caicedo, and Hincapié provides Ecuador with a strong defensive core as they prepare for a challenging World Cup campaign. Ecuador will be hoping to build on their previous World Cup appearances and make a significant impact on the tournament. The squad represents a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, offering a balance of stability and potential for future growth.
