Ecuador v Senegal
Kick Off: 15:00
Competition: World Cup 2022
Watch Live: ITV1
Senegal head into the game against Ecuador knowing they likely need a win to secure a spot in the last 16. The African side have performed reasonably well in the tournament so far but they would have expected to reach the knockout stages when the tournament began.
Both of these sides’ victories came against Qatar. Ecuador have the advantage heading into the final group game after their draw with the Netherlands. Senegal put in a good performance against Louis Van Gaal’s side but 2 late goals have put them on the back foot.
Senegal had more problems than Ecuador against the Qataris but the hosts looked overawed by the occasion when they took to the field in the first match. They dealt with the challenge of the host nation looking to respond.
Jhegson Mendez, Ecuador starting center midfielder cannot play against Senegal due to accumulation of yellow cards. Enner Valencia, Ecuador forward and goalscorer of the tournament went off injured last match against the Netherlands and is doubtful for the Senegal match. Enner Valencia could still see the pitch because he was doubtful for the Netherlands but got the start despite coming off injured in the first match against Qatar. There are reports saying Enner is participating in team training so I believe we can see him on matchday three against Senegal.
This will be one of the best matches of matchday three. Both teams are playing for their chance into the Round of 16. Ecuador wants to top Group A so will be going for the win here.
This game should be quite an end-to-end affair. Especially if we see an early goal for either side. Both of these sides have attacking quality and I think both teams will find the net on Tuesday. Senegal played in a 4-4-2 shape against Qatar and I expect them to continue with this more attacking shape against Ecuador. Senegal and their opponents possess a significant aerial threat and this should add to the excitement.
Selection: 1 of 4
Prediction: Over 1.5 Goals
Odds: 1.44
Situationally, this one is set up for goals. Ecuador occupy 2nd place on 4 points, Senegal are in 3rd on 3 points. Senegal need to win to progress.
Ecuador have been the surprise package in Group A. They comfortably beat the hosts 2-0 in the first match, conceding just 0.28 xG, they then drew 1-1 with Netherlands despite winning 1.37 v 0.04 on expected goals.
Both Senegal matches have also had over 1.5 goals. They lost 2-0 to Netherlands in the opener then beat Qatar 3-1 in their most recent match.
Senegal looked more vulnerable at the back in the second half v Qatar and they came close to throwing away their 2-0 lead. Qatar didn’t manage a single shot on target vs Ecuador but had 3 against Senegal.Senegal’s defensive vulnerabilities do not bode well for a match they need to win. This game will open up and given Ecuador’s fire power, I think we’ll see at least two match goals.
Selection: 2 of 4
Prediction: Gonzalo Plata to Score or Assist
Odds: 2.80
The 22-year-old Ecuadorian winger was unlucky to not find the back of the net against the Netherlands, hitting a memorable crossbar to almost take the lead in the second half against the European giants. Gonzalo is one of Ecuador’s brightest players in attack and taking in consideration he hasn’t had a goal or assist in the first two matches of the World Cup, this game is it. Gonzalo will be the protagonist he always is and hopefully come up with a goal contribution! He is your best bet.
Selection: 3 of 4
Prediction: Michael Estrada to have 2+ Shots
Odds: 1.40
The Ecuadorian forward has gotten the start in the first two matches of the World Cup. Estrada has received some criticism due to not taking his chances while in the matches.
Gustavo Alfaro trusts in Estrada and has played him numerous times during his spell as he’s not just a goalscorer but a player who sets his teammates up for play. Expect to see Micheal Estrada testing out shots during the Senegal match as he’s expected to also get the start up top.
Selection: 4 of 4
Prediction: Nampalys Mendy to commit 1+ Fouls
Odds: 1.44
Mendy made just 1 fouls in the centre of midfield in Senegal’s last game but he should be called into action more against Ecuador. He made 2 fouls in his country’s opening match of the tournament and there should be a frantic pace about the upcoming match.
If we do see the end-to-end match we are expecting, Mendy will be forced to break up Ecuadorian attacks and get some vital tackles. This should inevitably lead to him making fouls.
Written by an Andy verified content writer
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