Predicted lineups, preview and where to watch the Group E clash between the dark horses of the World Cup

Ecuador return to world championship looking to build on an impressive unbeaten run while Ivory Coast return to football’s biggest stage for the first time since 2014 when the two nations meet in Philadelphia on Sunday.

With Germany expected to top Group E, this first match could prove decisive in the battle for the eliminations.

Cote d’Ivoire arrive in the United States on the back of a four-game winning streak, with Emers Fay’s side aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their history after previous group stage exits in 2006, 2010 and 2014.

Ecuador, meanwhile, have quietly become one of the toughest teams to beat in international football. Since Sebastian Becachece took over after losing to Brazil two years ago, La Tri have gone 19 games unbeaten in all competitions.

Squad news for Cote d’Ivoire vs Ecuador

Ivory Coast are expected to be without Roma defender Evan Ndika, who has been sidelined with a thigh injury since last month’s Rome derby and remains a major doubt for the Group E opener.

Fey has several attacking options, with Amad Diallo, Simon Adingra, Nicolas Pepe and highly-rated winger Yann Diomande competing for starting spots. With Sébastien Haller left out of the squad, Elie Wahhi, Evan Gessan and Ange-Joan Bony battle it out to lead the line.

Ecuador’s main fitness concern is around captain Ener Valencia. The veteran forward is considered a slight doubt, but is expected to be given every opportunity to prove his fitness before kick-off.

Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo will be at the center of Ecuador’s plans, while Arsenal defender Piero Hincapier, Paris Saint-Germain centre-back Willian Pacho and teenage star Kendry Paez provide quality in the spine of the team.

Expected lineups for Cote d’Ivoire vs Ecuador

Ivory Coast predicted XI: Y. Fofana; Due, Agbadu, Kosunu, Konan; Kesey, Sangare, S. Fly; Diallo, Gessan, Diamond

Ecuador predicted XI: Galindez; Ordonez, Pacho, Hincapie, Estupinan; Caicedo, Vite; Yeboa, Plata, Angulo; Valencia