The 2026 LigaPro Serie A first stage is nearing its September 13 conclusion, with the bottom six teams—currently Emelec (36 pts), Deportivo Cuenca (35), Orense (30), Técnico Universitario (29), Delfín (27), and Manta FC (20)—advancing to the relegation hexagonal that begins September 20 and carries over first-stage points. Manta sits well adrift after a poor campaign marked by defensive vulnerabilities and limited wins, while Delfín and Técnico occupy precarious positions with poor recent form and negative goal differences. Emelec, despite its historical stature, has slipped into the zone amid inconsistent results and must navigate final fixtures plus the hexagonal to improve its standing. The two lowest finishers in the six-team group face relegation to Serie B, shaping trader focus on these clubs' remaining matches and head-to-head outcomes in the decisive phase.