Honduras vs. Ecuador: Comparison by Culture, Sports, History, Landmarks, Celebrities and More
Of course all eyes will be focusing on the Honduran and Ecuadorian teams on Friday in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The two teams will be playing at the Arena da Baixada in Curitiba at 6 p.m. EST. This will be the first time these two face one another in the World Cup.
Soccer History
Both countries fall pretty short of the expectation of the region they play in. Ecuador holds the edge with wins in the 2002 and 2006 World Cup. Ecuador even qualified for the knockout round in 2006. Unfortunately for Honduras, the fans are still waiting for the nation's first ever victory at the World Cup.
One of Ecuador's most popular player was the late striker Christian Benitez, who won Club America's top goalscoring honors. On the Honduran side, one popular player is Marvin Chávez, who has played for the Honduras National Team in both the Gold and World Cups, including this year's Brazil tournament.
Population and size
Of the more than 25 countries that are located in Latin America, both Honduras and Ecuador rank in the top 15 in population. Ecuador's population is just over 15 million, while Honduras has over 8 million people. Ecuador is also the much larger country by nearly 70,000 square miles. Historically, these two countries share a very similar characteristic: They both gained their independence from Spain in the 19th century.
Landmarks and attractions
Get your sun glasses on and don't forget the sun block because there's going to be a lot of beaches and scenery involved. The two countries have paradise potential. Honduras is a little better, though, if you want to get in touch with your natural side and visit wildlife to the fullest.
Honduras offers exceptional beach options, such as the Roatan, Utila, Punta Sal and Guanaja. The most historic site in Honduras is the Copán, an ancient Mayan site filled with fascinating architecture. Ecuador is similar but offers more up-to-date monuments. The Church of Company and Catedral Nueva are fabulously constructed monuments.
Foods
Honduras is famous for their tortillas, seafood and beans. Ecuador is pretty similar but a little more meat friendly. The beef and pork combos are especially popular in the region. One of the most popular meals in Ecuador is the shrimp ceviche.
Ecuador might have the advantage in the meat department, but the coffee in Honduras ranks among the world's best.
Celebrities
Both countries have talented celebrities on the big screen.
Some of the of the most talented celebrities out of Ecuador include Mike Judge, Carlos Alban, and Diego Serrano. Judge is most famous most for his "Beavis and Butt-Head" and "King of the Hill" TV shows; "Office Space" was his most popular movie. Carlos Alban is remebered for his role in the children's TV show "Sesame Street."
Representing Honduras is Carlos Mencia, the well known standup comedian. His most successful show was the "Mind of Mencia." Daniel Zacapa, out of Honduras, has also had a great career on the big screen.
Economy
Both Ecuador and Honduras have been experiencing big improvements economically. Unemployment rates have been dropping in both countries for years. Ecuador's trade partners are America, Chile, and Peru with bananas, petroleum, cacao beans and shrimp as their main exports. Honduras' primary trade partners are America, European Union and Guatemala with gold, cigars and clothing leading the way.
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