FIFA World Cup 26™: What to look for in Côte d'Ivoire v Ecuador 🇨🇮🇪🇨 | OneFootball

The FIFA World Cup 26™ continues to dazzle in North America, and it's time to turn your attention to Group E.

Here's everything you need to look out for in the 11th match as Côte d'Ivoire take on Ecuador.

Who is playing today? 👀

This first-time contest between nations from Africa and South America is primed to be a thriller, including for neutral fans.

Côte d'Ivoire return to the tournament after 12 years, with a new squad full of experience and budding talent. From veteran captain Franck Kessié, formerly of Barcelona and Milan, to 23-year-old Amad Diallo of Manchester United, and everyone in between, it's a robust group of talent.

They did not concede a goal in 10 qualifying matches and have nine players who scored at least twice. Their final friendly before the tournament saw them stunningly beat France 2-1, too.

Meanwhile, Ecuador enter their fifth tournament looking to go one better than the round of 16, as they did 20 years ago. Manager Sebastian Beccacece has guided the country to a formidable defensive record, registering five wins and six draws in qualifying.

They impressively beat Colombia and Argentina 1-0 and in the run-up to the tournament, held every co-host, the United States, Mexico and Canada, to friendly draws too.

Enner Valencia, who scored six of the nine goals in qualifying, will be the veteran presence to rely on. After scoring the first two goals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup™, he'll be eager to lead the line again. His experience will want to rub off on young stars Kendry Paez (19), Anthony Valencia (22) and Jeremy Arevalo (21).

Players to watch 🔥

Villarreal's stunning third-place finish in the 2025/26 LaLiga season was thanks to the efforts of Nicolas Pépé. The former Arsenal winger registered eight goals and 10 assists on route to being nominated for the player of the season award in La Liga.

He has 17 goal contributions for his country, a tally which his recent form might help extend, especially when on the global stage. 

Meanwhile, Ecuador can boast a Champions League winner. Willian Pacho, who enters the World Cup at a prime age of 24, will be the leading force in their defensive line.

The Paris Saint-Germain centre-back was a clutch performer for the club, registering 17 appearances, two goals and one assist en route to European glory and also has two goals for the national team.

Must-watch video 🎥

Don't forget the talents of Moisés Caicedo will be on display for Ecuador. Here are some of the best moments in blue from the midfielder. Can he pull out the same kind of form on the global stage?

Fun facts 📊

Our prediction 🔮