Ecuador will meet the three-time African champions, Ivory Coast, to kick-start their FIFA World Cup Group E encounter on Monday at the Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia Stadium.
Ecuador heads into the match unbeaten in their last 19 matches and recent wins in their friendly matches. They recorded a comfortable 3-0 win over Guatemala and followed it up with a 2-1 victory against Saudi Arabia. Earlier in the year, they also held strong teams like the Netherlands and Morocco to 1-1 draws. Their recent performances highlight a well-organised and difficult-to-break-down side.
Ecuador team news
Despite their strong form, Ecuador faces uncertainty over the fitness of captain Enner Valencia.
The experienced forward is dealing with a minor calf issue, and a final decision on his availability will be made closer to kickoff.
Apart from this concern, Ecuador has a fully fit squad featuring several top players from leading European clubs.
Defensively, they are particularly strong, with Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapie, and Pervis Estupinan forming a solid backline.
In midfield, Moises Caicedo will play a crucial role in controlling possession and linking defence with attack.
If Valencia is unable to start, Ecuador will look to younger forwards such as John Yeboah, Gonzalo Plata, and Nilson Angulo to provide creativity and attacking threat.
Ecuador predicted lineup
Possible Ecuador starting XI:Â Galindez; Ordonez, Pacho, Hincapie, Estupinan; Caicedo, Vite; Yeboah, Plata, Angulo; Valencia
When will the match kick off?
The match will kick off at 12am BST on Monday, 15th June.
How to watch Ivory Coast vs Ecuador?
Viewers from the United Kingdom can watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Ivory Coast and Ecuador live on BBC One.
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