According to a video posted on the official social media account of the Ecuador men's national football team, Chelsea's Moisés Caicedo officially received the captain's armband in a ceremonial handover.

The official account shared video footage of the handover ceremony.

Enner Valencia, who had captained Ecuador for years and is now 37 years old, stepped down from the role. Valencia had led the team through the final group stage matches before passing the armband to Caicedo.

At the ceremony, Valencia said: "All this is possible because of the efforts we have made. This is a big test, and we believe that God will grant our wishes and that we will qualify. You know, for me today, the only important thing is to embrace my teammates at the end of the game. I feel from the bottom of my heart that it was an embrace full of joy—a 'qualification embrace.'"

"Hey, brother, you know what? Once, in Argentina, before a few rounds of qualifiers, someone told me they wanted me to be captain. It is a huge responsibility, but what truly matters is getting along with this team. Later on, I don’t want people to remember me for my performances on the field or my goals. I hope every teammate who has fought alongside me remembers that I treated each of you like a genuinely good person. Today, just like in the match against Peru, I’m handing this captain’s armband to you, Caicedo. Please wear it well. We know that you, and everyone here, has the ability to wear it. We believe that everyone is a leader needed by those around them, and you are one of those leaders, brother. Wear this armband today."

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