Plata expected to start Ecuador opener after winning over Jardim at Flamengo | OneFootball

Plata, only the second Ecuadorian to represent Flamengo at a World Cup, is preparing for Ecuador’s opener on Sunday. According to Globo.com, the forward is expected to start against Ivory Coast in Philadelphia at 20:00 Brasília time.

His turnaround at Flamengo gathered pace after 22 March, when Leonardo Jardim left him out against Corinthians citing integration difficulties. He was not in the squad, then joined Ecuador and said being with the national team helped him forget the issues around him.

Strong displays against Morocco and the Netherlands in the final window before the tournament secured his place. On his return, Flamengo fined him for his behaviour but moved to protect his value. A frank discussion with Jardim brought renewed trust, which Plata seized.

Since the Corinthians episode he has been named in every matchday squad and went unused only once. He has started seven times and come on six times, and is now seen as part of the first-choice side.

That change cooled talk of a sale, with the club prioritising the core of the team. The World Cup shop window could still prompt a rethink if very favourable bids arrive, and the board know they need income from departures but do not want to lose regulars.

Plata earned an almost assured place through his work rate under Filipe Luís, and has regained it under Jardim. Internally he rates highly for physical output, though technical inconsistency has been noted. In 2026 he has two goals and three assists in 23 games, and this is his second World Cup after featuring in 2022 with Valladolid.

Before him, defender Erazo was the other Ecuadorian to represent Flamengo at a World Cup, playing in 2014.

Source: Globo.com