Ecuador return to the World Cup trying to construct on a formidable unbeaten run, whereas Ivory Coast are again on soccer’s largest stage for the primary time since 2014 when the 2 nations meet in Philadelphia on Sunday.
With Germany anticipated to steer Group E, this opening fixture may show decisive within the battle for the knockout rounds.
Ivory Coast arrive in the USA after profitable 4 consecutive matches and Emerse Fae’s aspect are aiming to achieve the knockout levels for the primary time of their historical past after earlier group-stage exits in 2006, 2010 and 2014.
Ecuador, in the meantime, have quietly change into one of the vital troublesome groups to beat in worldwide soccer. Since Sebastian Beccacece took cost following a defeat to Brazil two years in the past, La Tri have gone 19 matches unbeaten in all competitions.
Workforce information for Ivory Coast v Ecuador
Ivory Coast are anticipated to be with out Roma defender Evan Ndicka, who has been sidelined by a thigh harm since final month’s Rome derby and stays a significant doubt for the Group E opener.
Fae has a number of attacking choices out there, with Amad Diallo, Simon Adingra, Nicolas Pepe and highly-rated winger Yan Diomande all competing for beginning locations. With Sebastien Haller omitted from the squad, Elye Wahi, Evan Guessand and Ange-Yoan Bonny are battling to steer the road.
Ecuador’s major health concern surrounds captain Enner Valencia. The veteran striker is taken into account a minor doubt however is anticipated to be given each alternative to show his health earlier than kick-off.
Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo might be central to Ecuador’s plans, whereas Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie, Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Willian Pacho and teenage star Kendry Paez present high quality all through the backbone of the crew.
Anticipated line-ups for Ivory Coast v Ecuador
Ivory Coast predicted XI: Y. Fofana; Doue, Agbadou, Kossounou, Konan; Kessie, Sangare, S. Fofana; Diallo, Guessand, Diomande
Ecuador predicted XI: Galindez; Ordonez, Pacho, Hincapie, Estupinan; Caicedo, Vite; Yeboah, Plata, Angulo; Valencia
