The Collapse of Two Icons
Barcelona SC and Emelec, two clubs that once were pride of Guayaquil and Ecuador, are suffering a collapse that the community has described as a ‘deporticide’. The author, with 62 years of journalism, narrates how a lack of intervention by leaders and politics has allowed the decline to accumulate over the years.
Deporticide and Violence
The author points out that violence has been a decisive factor in the fall of both teams. Vandalism, use of firearms, knives and deadly firecrackers have become a constant threat to fans. Stadiums, once places of celebration, are now scenes of destruction and fear. The presence of rival bars has become so dangerous that some clubs have had to ban them.
History of Glory and Ruins
Emelec, under President Nassib Neme from 2011 to 2022, enjoyed a triumphant decade: champions in 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2017; runners-up in 2011, 2012, 2018 and 2021; and third place in 2019 and 2020. The institution kept its debts guaranteed by trusts and stable financing. Yet in just four seasons the club lost its financial and sporting solidity.
Barcelona SC, on the other hand, has seen its structure crumble. The author remembers that the club was built with effort and passion, but that lack of leadership and corruption have allowed the collapse to advance uncontrollably.
The 1956 Classic
The author revives the 1956 Astillero classic where Emelec and Barcelona SC faced each other at Capwell Stadium. Emelec had players like Daniel Pinto and Francisco Pugliese, and won the tournament with a 4-2-4 system. Barcelona SC responded with a team that included Pablo Ansaldo and Luciano Macías. The match, watched by 30,000 people, ended 2-2, and Emelec took the title.
Emotional Conclusion
The author concludes with a personal reflection: “I went to the stadium for the first time 74 years ago and since then I have seen generations, heroes and defeats.” He ends with the phrase: “If when I remember I start to cry…”.
