Ecuador is ready to kick off its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign when they face Ivory Coast this Sunday at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The team managed by Sebastián Beccacece will look to start on the right foot in a demanding matchup against the reigning African champions.

The experienced Enner Valencia will be the main attacking reference for the Tricolor in what represents his third and final World Cup appearance. The forward arrives as one of the group's leaders and the main goal-scoring hope for the Ecuadorian squad

The main question mark in the starting eleven lies on the left side of the midfield. Nilson Angulo and Alan Minda are competing for a spot in the lineup, offering different profiles for a match that promises intensity and speed. While Angulo stands out for his ability to beat defenders and his explosiveness, Minda provides greater defensive balance.

Beccacece is expected to opt for a flexible system that can alternate between a three-man backline and a more traditional formation depending on the match circumstances.

Ecuador's Probable Lineup:

Hernán Galíndez; Joel Ordóñez, Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapié; Alan Franco, Moisés Caicedo, Pedro Vite, Nilson Angulo (or Alan Minda), Gonzalo Plata, John Yeboah; Enner Valencia.

On the other hand, Ivory Coast arrives with a squad full of talent and international experience. Captain Franck Kessié will lead the midfield, while Amad Diallo and Simon Adingra will be the primary attacking threats for the Africans.

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