What format would you prefer for 2010? 2 groups of 5, or a single group of 10? FIFA prefers the former, Conmebol prefers the latter. Of course in the 60s, 70s, and 80s most teams needed to play only 4 games to qualify. Nowadays it's a whopping 18 games! This of course, makes Ecuador's qualification even more impressive given the amount of games it has to play, plus Conmebol has the hardest WCQ group in the world!
I heard they are still going to have the 18 games, but are going to have 6 "fechas" with 3 games each, instead of the 9 "fechas" with 2 games as the last two. I don't know if this idea will really fly tho.
i also support the current system. If there would be "6 fechas" of 3 games each, the final standings would be biased. Teams could be on hot streaks, and injuries could come into play if they play 3 games in a week or two. For example Ecuador could be flying high and beat Peru, Argentina, and Venezuela.. or could be in a low point and lose all 3. Also if players are injured they would miss 3 games guaranteed. Keeping the system the way it is now makes sure that the consistent teams qualify and that is they way it should be.