Pacho, Ecuador’s defensive rock v Argentina: analysis | OneFootball

Ecuador created a surprise by winning 1-0 against Argentina during the qualifications for the 2026 World Cup. In a match where the Tri managed to contain the opponent's offensive waves, Willian Pacho's performance made the difference. The central defender from Paris Saint-Germain delivered a complete match, combining serenity in duels and precision in passing. Here's a look back at his performance that sealed Ecuador's success.

Willian Pacho, the defensive pillar

Starting on the left side of the defense, Willian Pacho was present on all fronts. Against the Argentine attackers, he displayed impressive confidence, especially in duels: 7 won out of 11 (64%), with perfect efficiency in aerial play (1/1). His sense of anticipation allowed him to make 6 clearances and 1 interception, thwarting several opponent offensives.

This defensive volume reflects impeccable game reading. Pacho didn't need to multiply spectacular interventions: he knew how to cut trajectories and impose his physical presence at the right moment. His only weakness was a lost duel against a launched attacker, but without major consequence on the score.

A clean and intelligent passing

Beyond his defensive solidity, Pacho was valuable in ball usage. With 62 successful passes out of 74 (84%), he embodied a reliable relay in the first pass. His ability to stretch the play also allowed his team to breathe: 4 successful long passes out of 6 attempted (67%).

He didn't just recycle the ball. The defender knew how to find solutions forward, as evidenced by his key pass, proving he is capable of contributing to the attack. With 77 balls played, he was the most solicited player in the defensive sector, a sign of his teammates' trust in his ability to secure the pass.

A central role in the Ecuadorian team

This performance is not isolated: it is part of the continuity of his last months in Paris, where Pacho has established himself as an indisputable starter. Against Argentina, he managed to transpose this regularity into the national team, becoming the silent leader of a perfectly organized defense.

As Ecuador sought to maintain its lead after opening the score, his calmness and positioning reassured the entire block. Where others might have panicked under Argentine pressure, Pacho maintained the necessary clarity to close spaces and pass cleanly.

Conclusion

Ecuador's success against Argentina owes much to collective dedication, but also to the individual performance of Willian Pacho. Between accurate defensive interventions and quality passing, the defender delivered a match that confirms his growing status. For Ecuador, he becomes an essential pillar in the quest for qualification. For Europe, he continues to attract attention as one of the most reliable South American defenders of his generation.

Key Stats – Willian Pacho vs Argentina

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.