It will be midnight in Britain when Ivory Coast and Ecuador step onto the pitch at Lincoln Financial Field on Monday — a World Cup debut in Philadelphia for both sides, and the first taste of Group E action.
The match, which kicks off at 7pm local time on Sunday in the United States, will be broadcast live on BBC One with coverage beginning at 11.15pm on Sunday June 14. For those unable to get to a television, BBC Radio 5 Live will provide commentary, including 30 minutes of pre-game build-up. Digital viewers in the UK can stream the match for free via BBC iPlayer, while American audiences can watch on FS1 or through the FOX One and FOX Sports apps.
“Ivory Coast face Ecuador in their World Cup Group E opener at Philadelphia Stadium at midnight UK time on Monday.”
Ivory Coast’s defence is expected to feature Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande and Galatasaray’s Wilfried Singo. In attack, manager Emerse Fae will look to RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande — a player linked with Liverpool — and Manchester United’s Amad to create chances.
Ecuador will rely on Arsenal’s Piero Hincapie and PSG’s Willian Pacho at the back, with Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo pulling the strings in the middle. Former West Ham striker Enner Valencia captains the side.
The Philadelphia Eagles’ home ground, temporarily renamed Philadelphia Stadium for the tournament, provides the setting for a Group E that also includes four-time world champions Germany and debutants Curacao. Both teams will know that a positive start is crucial in a group where every point could decide who advances.