Ecuador are hopeful that Enner Valencia will be available for their second match of the 2022 World Cup against the Netherlands.

The 33-year-old scored both goals in Sunday's 2-0 victory over Qatar, with the South American nation making the perfect start to their Group A campaign against the tournament hosts.

However, he had to be withdrawn in the 77th minute of the contest after picking up a knee injury, and Ecuador are now sweating on his fitness.

Valencia, who is the national side's all-time leading goalscorer with 37, is believed to be winning his race to be fit, although a final decision might not be made until the final moment.

Head coach Gustavo Alfaro will be considering a change of formation here in a bid to combat a Netherlands side that have plenty of talent in the final third of the field.

Michael Estrada could drop down to the bench to allow Jeremy Sarmiento to come into the side, with the 20-year-old potentially playing just behind Valencia.

Robert Arboleda is another player pushing for a spot in the XI, with the 31-year-old under consideration to bolster the defence.

However, Alfaro could ultimately decide to keep faith with the majority of the side that started against Qatar, with the likes of Carlos Gruezo and Jhegson Mendez set to keep their spots.

Ecuador possible starting lineup: Galindez; Preciado, Torres, Hincapie, Estupinan; Plata, Caicedo, Mendez, Ibarra; Sarmiento; Valencia

> Click here to see how Netherlands could line up for this match

Written by
Matt Law