The game against Chile

By now you surely know that Ecuador defeated Chile, 3 goals to 1. These were the most important plays.

On Facebook the nation’s mood was generous. The Football Federation took a poll: Who was our best player? And in comment after comment, Ecuadorians replied: Everyone played well. Even the Hormiga Paredes played well, despite his autogolazo. (No Chilean was able to score.)

But if one player was commended more than the others, it was Felipe Caicedo, our prodigal son. After having suffered a 14-month banishment, he’s returned to score four goals in three games.

Our next qualifier, in Venezuela, will be played tomorrow — Tuesday — at 6:00pm (U.S. Eastern Time). Pray for Ecuador to win.

Alas, Caicedo has been suspended.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Readers in your twenties: find this book. I wish I had. My twenties were 10 times tougher than my teens. This book explains why.

There’s still hope for you. But not for me. Now that I’m thirty, my personality is set, and I’m doomed.