Ecuador boss is confident on Valencia

Ecuador coach Gustavo Alfaro is confident captain and talisman Enner Valencia will be fit for his side’s decisive final group game against Senegal today.

Former West Ham and Everton striker Valencia has scored all three of Ecuador's goals in the tournament so far but is carrying a knee injury.

The 33-year-old struck twice in the 2-0 win over hosts Qatar and then grabbed the equaliser in the 1-1 draw with the Netherlands but was forced off in both games.

Ecuador need just a draw to reach the last 16 and Alfaro said: "He has a big heart and wants to be in every battle and, of course, his leadership is something that we always need.

“We'll try to have him ready. If he's not ready from the beginning I hope he can be present at some point but I have confidence because I know that he will want to be there.”