Premier League star becomes World Cup captain as team-mate quits role mid-tournament

Chelsea star Moises Caicedo has been appointed as Ecuador's new captain during the World Cup, taking over from Enner Valencia, who has stepped down from the role. Ecuador are now gearing up to meet Mexico in the round of 32, having claimed third spot in Group E.

Ecuador booked their place in the first knockout phase of the World Cup following a dramatic win over Germany in their concluding group fixture. Valencia featured from the start in all three group matches for Ecuador but is yet to find the back of the net at the tournament, while Caicedo has likewise been a consistent starter for his nation in North America. During an emotional ceremony alongside Valencia, Caicedo was unveiled as Ecuador's new captain and will wear the armband for the remainder of the country's fixtures in the competition.

Ecuador faced the prospect of failing to advance from the group stage of the World Cup, having collected just a single point from their opening two matches.

A 1-0 defeat against the Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curacao left Sebastian Beccacece's team at risk of being knocked out of the tournament.

Nevertheless, Ecuador clinched a 2-1 win over Germany in their final Group E outing to seal third position in the group, which is enough to set up a round of 32 clash against Mexico on Tuesday night, taking place in Mexico City.

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It was during the victory over Germany that Caicedo wore the captain's armband for Ecuador for the first time in the tournament, having also captained his country during their friendly triumph over New Zealand back in November.

There remains a chance that Caicedo and Ecuador could meet England at the World Cup, with victory over Mexico potentially setting up a last-16 tie against either the Three Lions or DR Congo.

Caicedo is no stranger to captaincy duties, having worn the armband for Chelsea on two occasions in the Premier League last season - in losses to Manchester United and Manchester City during April.

The 24-year-old midfielder also led Chelsea to victory over Cardiff City in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, as well as the third round FA Cup win against Charlton Athletic.