On Friday, a World Cup squad that leans significantly on players with roots in Major League Soccer pulled off a gritty and unexpected draw against one of the giants of the international game.
And it’s probably not the one you’re thinking of.
Three hours before the United States sealed a well-earned share of the points in a 0-0 tie with England, Ecuador pulled off their own 1-1 result with the Netherlands to remain in the joint lead of the standings in Group A.
Current Golden Boot leader Enner Valencia has been the biggest story for Latricolor, which is looking to advance beyond the group stage for just the second time in its fourth all-time World Cup appearance.
But beyond Valencia’s three goals