Piero Hincapié (c.) marked his 41st senior international appearance by captaining Ecuador for the first time. - © IMAGO/Riquelve Nata/SPP

bundesliga

Bayer Leverkusen's Piero Hincapié captains Ecuador for the first time

17.10.2024

Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié captained Ecuador for the first time as La Tri drew 0-0 with Uruguay on Wednesday.

The 22-year-old, who joined the Werkself in 2021, was making his 41st appearance for his country as they continued their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

And while Enner Valencia and Moisés Caicedo and Pervis Estupiñán, who each wore the armband in the previous three fixtures, were also included in the starting XI, head coach Félix Sánchez gave Hincapié the responsibility on this occasion.

The Esmeraldas-native rose to the occasion, too, producing a solid defensive display to help Ecuador consolidate their place amongst the top six automatic qualification spots.

Before the game, Hincapié shared his delight on Instagram, writing: "I am proud to wear the captain's armband. It is a dream come true, this is what every kid longs for when they enter this beautiful world of football. I promise to give everything."

It remains to be seen whether he will lead the team once again when they host Bolivia next month.

In the meantime, his focus switches back to domestic duties, where Leverkusen host Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday. Victory for the reigning Bundesliga champions could catapult them into top spot.