Argentine journalist Martín Liberman has set a blunt target for the Ecuador national football team: win the Copa América. In his remarks, the outspoken commentator stated that anything less than the continental title would be a failure for La Tri, now led by Marcelo Gallardo.
The arrival of the most decorated coach in River Plate's history, with fourteen titles between 2014 and 2022, is seen by many as the moment to deliver on the 'quality leap' promised by the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) eight years ago. Liberman was direct in his assessment of the team's potential. "For me, Ecuador has to be champion of América, anything below that is failure," he said.
The pundit also urged a shift in mentality on and off the pitch. "Ecuador has already shown it can compete; end the 'Yes we can'. We must end that lamentable chant in the stadiums." added Liberman, clearly referencing a move beyond mere aspiration.
This call for greatness comes during a period of transition for the national side, which currently sits third in its World Cup group with four points from three games.
La Tri's recent form, a sequence of results including wins against Germany and Saudi Arabia but also defeats to Mexico and Ivory Coast, highlights the inconsistency Gallardo must address. Liberman even pinpointed a concrete goal: the 2028 Copa América final, a scenario where, in his view, this cycle will be judged against the eras of previous coaches like Sebastián Beccacece, Gustavo Alfaro, or Hernán Darío Gómez. The journey starts now, with the focus on turning potential into silverware.
Read the full report at El Universo Deportes
