Ivory Coast v Ecuador preview and prediction

One finished in a very creditable second place in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, whilst the other managed a fine victory over France in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup. It is clear that Germany has not been lucky with Ecuador and Ivory Coast in their group. For these nations, the tournament begins with a crucial head-to-head clash, particularly with regard to the battle for second place. We’ll tell you more about this match and give you our Ivory Coast v Ecuador prediction.

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Ivory Coast v Ecuador preview

Do you remember the days of Yaya Touré and Didier Drogba? Ivory Coast has produced so many great footballers over the years. At the moment, there are few players active at the very highest level in Europe, but the Elephants still have an excellent squad. Just last week, they beat France 2-1, thanks in part to a goal from Amad Diallo of Manchester United. Does this provide enough confidence ahead of the big clash with Ecuador.

Ecuador is a country that should not be underestimated. Teams have found it particularly difficult to score against the runners-up in the South American qualifiers. In the 18 matches the country played, they conceded just five goals. In the run-up to the 2026 World Cup, it has also become clear that their defence is solid. Whilst Saudi Arabia managed to score a goal, Guatemala failed to do so. Will they also prevent Les Éléphants from scoring?

Ivory Coast v Ecuador prediction

If we have learnt one thing recently, it is that Ecuador are a very solid side. In addition to conceding just five goals, the South Americans have also managed to score only 14 times. This is an average of just over one goal per match. We therefore believe that there will be only one goal scored in this match as well. Under 1.5 goals gives you odds of 2.35.

Ivory Coast v Ecuador odds

For a long time, much was expected of Nicolas Pepe, the forward who played for Arsenal for a while. He has now been playing for Villarreal for some time and was a key player for Ivory Coast in his most recent international matches. Indeed, he found the net in two of the last three games. He also provided an assist against France. We believe he will play a key role and have at least one shot on target. There’s certainly no shortage of threat. If Nicolas Pépé has more than 0.5 shots on target, you’ll get odds of 1.90.

Ivory Coast v Ecuador: predicted line-ups

Below are the predicted line-ups for both teams:

Ivory Coast (4-3-3): Fofana, Konan, Diomandé, Agbadou, Doue, Oulai, Kessie, Sangare, Diomandé, Guessand, Amad

Ecuador (5-4-1): Galindez, Estupinan, Hincapie, Pacho, Ordonez, Franco, Vite, Caicedo, Angulo, Valencia, Yeboah