Ecuador is currently in 3rd position in the World Cup 2026 classification with 4 points, 1 win, 1 draw and 1 loss in 3 games, with a record of 2 goals scored and 2 conceded. In the league, they are 2 points behind the leaders Germany. In their last game, Mexico defeated Ecuador 2-0 on July 1, 2026. In their last 5 games, Ecuador has won 1, drawn 2 and lost 2, with a loss in the last 2 games. Neymar Jr. left uncertain his presence in Ecuador for the return match against Macará in the Copa Sudamericana. After Santos' 2-1 win over Macará at Vila Belmiro stadium, the Brazilian forward was asked by DSports if he would be in Ecuador for the rematch. "I don't know, I don't know. I've had many hits today", replied Neymar, who was a starter and had a decisive participation in the Brazilian team's comeback. The striker explained that Santos would have an important commitment in the Brazilian championship before, so his presence in Ambato is still not defined. "We have an important game on Sunday, next Sunday. Honestly, I don't know if I'll be there. The game is very long, but we'll see, we'll see", he said. Neymar insisted that his priority would be to face each game separately and left open the possibility of traveling to Ecuador. "Game by game, we have a game on Sunday that is a final. And well, I'll be present for the team and then we'll see if I'll go to Ecuador", he stated. The Brazilian had a decisive performance against Macará. Neymar participated in both Santos' goals through assists. Macará took the lead at 5 minutes with a goal from Franco Posse, but Gabriel Barbosa equalized before halftime. In the second half, Willian Arão scored the decisive 2-1 goal after a corner kick executed by Neymar. Additionally, Santos had two goals annulled during the game. With the win, Santos will arrive at the return match with a minimum advantage and will suffice with a draw to advance to the quarterfinals. If Macará wins by a goal, the series will be decided by penalties. The return match of the Copa Sudamericana 2026 quarterfinals will be played on August 20, at 17:00 (Ecuador time). Macará will receive Santos at Bellavista stadium in Ambato, where they will try to overcome the 2-1 defeat suffered in Brazil and secure their qualification to the quarterfinals.