How Ecuador could line up against Colombia

© Reuters

For their first game of the 2021 Copa America campaign, Gustavo Alfaro will look to name a full-strength Ecuador side to take on Colombia.

That should see forward Enner Valencia return to the side to lead the line, having been absent from the squad for the final World Cup Qualifier before the beginning of the Copa America.

Currently level with Agustin Delgado on 31 goals, Valencia will go in search of a goal to put him ahead and make him the sole lead scorer in the national team's history.

Winger Gonzalo Plata will also hope to come into the starting XI, having found the net off the bench in their recent defeat to Peru.

One of the most exciting players in the Ecuador ranks is Brighton and Hove Albion prospect Moises Caicedo, who offers dynamism and quality at both ends of the pitch at the age of 19.

Meanwhile, Xavier Arreaga and Robert Arboleda should partner up at the heart of the Ecuador back four, having recently established themselves as a strong pairing.

Either side of the centre-backs, Pedro Perlaza and Pervis Estupinan should operate in the full-back slots, playing important roles in both attack and defence.

Ecuador possible starting XI: Dominguez; Perlaza, Arboleda, Arreaga, Estupinan; Plata, Mendez, Caicedo, Carabali; Estrada, Valencia

Click here to see how Colombia could line up for this clash