CD El Nacional is a historic Ecuadorian football club based in Quito, currently competing in the LigaPro Serie A, the top flight of Ecuadorian football. The team plays its home matches at the Estadio Olímpico Atahualpa. Founded in 1964, the club is unique as it traditionally only fielded Ecuadorian-born players, a policy that forged a strong national identity. Their colors are white and blue. El Nacional's peak era was from the 1960s through the 1980s, where they won 13 national championships, becoming the most successful club in Ecuadorian history for a time. Known as "Los Puros Criollos," they were a powerhouse and a source of immense national pride. The modern era has been more challenging, with the club experiencing relegation but fighting its way back to the top tier. The team culture is defined by its pure Ecuadorian lineage and a passionate, loyal fanbase. CD El Nacional remains an iconic and deeply respected institution in Ecuadorian football history.