Club Sport Emelec held to goalless stalemate by Daquilema FC in Copa Ecuador

The Copa Ecuador got underway on 6 May 2026 with a surprising result at the Estadio George Capwell, where Serie A giants Club Sport Emelec were unable to break down a stubborn Daquilema FC side, finishing 0-0. The Ecuadorian top-flight side dominated possession and territory but found no way past a determined lower-league opponent.

Emelec, one of the most successful clubs in Ecuadorian football history, entered the cup tie as overwhelming favourites. They controlled the tempo from the first whistle, with their midfield trio dictating play and their full-backs pushing high. Yet Daquilema FC, competing from a lower division, executed a disciplined defensive game plan, staying compact and forcing Emelec into wide, hopeful crosses that were comfortably dealt with.

The first half saw Emelec register several half-chances, most notably a header from a corner that was tipped over the bar. After the break, the home side increased the urgency, introducing attacking substitutes in search of a winner. A curling effort from the edge of the box in the 78th minute struck the post, summing up a frustrating evening for the Emelec faithful.

Daquilema FC earned enormous credit for their resilience, marking their Copa Ecuador debut with a memorable clean sheet against a powerhouse club. The draw sets up a replay or – depending on competition rules – forces Emelec to face a tricky away leg. For Emelec, it is a wake-up call in a competition they have historically taken seriously.