Caicedo is part of the Ecuador side that is making only its fifth appearance at a World Cup, and only once has the country progressed past the group stage.

That was 20 years ago in 2006, when the hosts were Germany, who are Ecuador’s final group-stage opponent this time around.

However, it was the 2014 World Cup in Brazil that Caicedo remembers inspiring him, even though a memorable win over Honduras and a draw with France were not enough to recover from an opening defeat to Switzerland and secure a spot in the knockout rounds.

That year, striker Enner Valencia scored all three of Ecuador’s goals at the tournament, making a big impression on Caicedo. The two are now team-mates, with Valencia captaining the side at this summer's World Cup, and the Chelsea midfielder hopes to provide Ecuador’s next generation the same inspiration he received.

‘I remember that moment because it’s so special for me – now I want to motivate the other young players to keep doing the right things to achieve where I am,' said Caicedo.

‘Now I’m playing alongside Enner Valencia in the national team after I watched him play in that World Cup. For me, he’s an idol; I’m learning a lot from him.

‘To be honest, I am so excited to be playing my second World Cup alongside him.’

Caicedo's Ecuador must overcome a tough challenge to progress to the knockout stages for the second time in their history.

They face Germany at 9pm UK time on Thursday, knowing only a win combined with a Curacao victory over the Ivory Coast would see them end in the top two of Group E.

A draw would mean a nervous wait to find out if they finish as one of the eight best third-placed sides.