Emelec faces a critical moment in their LigaPro 2025 campaign as they prepare for a must-win match against a struggling El Nacional. Scheduled for December 15, 2025, at the George Capwell Stadium, Emelec not only seeks victory but must aim for a substantial goal margin to keep their slim chances of qualifying for the 2026 Copa Sudamericana alive.
Currently positioned fourth in the second hexagonal with 52 points, Emelec finds themselves reliant on a near-perfect combination of results from other matches. The team’s recent performance has left much to be desired, and they are now four points adrift of the third place, with Deportivo Cuenca, who recently triumphed over leaders Macará, tightening the race.
In order to stay in contention, Emelec needs to capitalize on their match against El Nacional, who are facing their own turmoil. The team must not only secure the three points but also significantly improve their goal differential, which currently sits at a troubling -8—one of the worst in the league. Following this match, Emelec’s final game will be against Deportivo Cuenca, where another high-scoring victory will be necessary, alongside a desire for Aucas to lose convincingly to Macará.
Coach Guillermo Duró has received a boost with the return of key players such as Luis Fernando León and José Francisco Cevallos, which will bolster Emelec’s defensive and midfield strategies in this crucial encounter.
On the other side, El Nacional navigates a cloud of uncertainty with the potential for a nine-point deduction imposed by the Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) due to financial issues. This looming penalty puts the club in jeopardy of relegation, although an official decision from the FEF has yet to be announced.
As anticipation builds for this electrifying showdown, fans can catch all the action live on El Canal del Fútbol and Zapping Sports. Emelec’s journey may be fraught with challenges, but there is still room for optimism. A stunning performance could turn the tide in their favor, not only in the match but also in the context of their season.