ECUADOR are set to face Senegal as Group A comes to a close, with a chance one team could go through and the other could go home.
The Netherlands are currently level with Ecuador on four points at the top with Senegal just behind on three.
Louis van Gaal’s side face a poor Qatar team who are already out and are therefore expected to win – that means this clash has a play-off feel.
Ecuador have been praised heavily for their compact style and technical players with star striker Enner Valencia scoring for fun.
The Lions are missing their talisman Sadio Mane but remain a team full of quality and confidence after winning the last African Cup of Nations.
SunSport takes a look at what to expect from Ecuador vs Senegal including our score prediction.
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How are they getting on?
Ecuador: The South Americans began the tournament in style thanks to a brace from Valencia as they blew away the host nation in the opening 45 minutes of the tournament winning 2-0.
They then faced group favourites Holland and made life difficult for them in a 1-1 draw, Ecuador will count themselves unlucky not to win that match.
Read the full report from that game here.
Senegal: Aliou Cisse’s side conceded two late goals against the Netherlands in a tight game.
The pressure was on against Qatar and they responded winning 3-1.
Read the full report as Senegal beat Qatar.
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Any injuries to worry about?
Ecuador: They could be without captain and World Cup goal machine Valenica after he was stretchered off in their last outing.
Manager Gustavo Alfaro highlighted his importance to the team but revealed no more suggesting he is unsure on his fitness not ruling out him starting, coming off the bench or not being available at all.
Senegal: There are no fresh injury concerns for Senegal – of course Mane is not named in the squad due to injury.
Who will be the star men?
Ecuador: Enner Valencia if fit will be the key player. But it is worth keeping an eye on Moises Caicedo.
The Brighton midfielder is energetic and tough tackling, he keeps the side ticking.
Senegal: Boulaye Dia scored versus Qatar and provides hard work up front.
He will need to be supplied by pacey wingers Ismalia Sarr and Krepin Diatta. Both can create something from nothing with their direct styles.
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What’s the head-to-head?
These two nations only ever met once before, back in 2002.
Senegal won the friendly 0-1.
Permutations
Ecuador on four points, need to win or draw to qualify.
If Senegal pick up three points they go through but a draw could be enough if Qatar beat the Netherlands.
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SunSport prediction
Ecuador could be heavily impacted if Valencia is not fit but they are not just reliant on him. They have proved tough to beat so far in the competition and have real team spirit and belief.
Ecuador 1-1 Senegal
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
