Emelec confirms Pedro Ortiz sidelined by injury

Emelec confirmed on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, that their key player Pedro Ortiz will be out of action for two to three weeks. The club announced via official channels that the goalkeeper suffered a Grade 1 sprain of the anterior cruciate ligament and a bone contusion.

Ortiz sustained the injury during Emelec's 2-1 away defeat to Deportivo Cuenca on Monday night. The home team secured the win with two goals from Melvin Díaz, while Emelec's temporary equalizer came from Ignacio Guerrico.

The veteran goalkeeper was substituted in the 74th minute after a collision with Deportivo Cuenca defender Patricio Boolsen during a corner kick. Ortiz immediately showed signs of pain and was taken off the field on a stretcher, with Miguel Valero replacing him.

Ortiz has been Emelec's starting goalkeeper for the 2026 season, missing only two of the 22 league matches. In his 20 appearances, he has conceded 26 goals and kept a clean sheet six times. He has also served as captain in several matches throughout the season.