Barcelona SC eliminated from Copa Ecuador due to administrative error

Barcelona SC has officially been eliminated from the Copa Ecuador after the Ecuadorian Football Federation's (FEF) Disciplinary Commission sided with Liga de Portoviejo regarding an improper player alignment. The decision stems from the fielding of Erick Mendoza in the round of 16 match.

The match, played on Wednesday, August 5, saw Barcelona SC secure a 1-0 victory with a penalty goal from Jhonny Quiñónez. However, Liga de Portoviejo protested the legality of Mendoza's appearance in the 67th minute, replacing Panamanian forward Tomás Rodríguez.

Mendoza had previously played in the Copa Ecuador during this edition for Delfín, even scoring a goal in their 2-0 win against Baños Ciudad de Fuego in the previous round. His participation with Barcelona SC violated Article 50 of the Copa Ecuador regulations, which prohibits a player from competing for two different teams in the same stage of the competition.

The disciplinary ruling mandates that Barcelona SC forfeit the match with a 3-0 score, leading to their elimination. Liga de Portoviejo will now occupy their spot in the quarterfinals, facing the winner of the match between Manta and Juventud Italiana.