Top News

The BBC has confirmed the full team of commentators, analysts, and presenters for the upcoming World Cup encounter between Ivory Coast and Ecuador.

This match marks Ivory Coast’s first appearance in a World Cup since the 2014 edition, and they will be eager to progress to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Head coach Emerse Fae’s team, however, will remain cautious against Ecuador, given that Ivory Coast have failed to win any of their three previous tournament matches against South American sides.

This Group E fixture is scheduled to kick off at 12 a.m. UK time, with BBC One broadcasting the game live.

Hosting the coverage will be the experienced 'Match of the Day' presenter Mark Chapman, who will be joined in the studio by two well-known former internationals — Benni McCarthy and Ellen White.

Since hanging up his boots, former South Africa striker Benni McCarthy spent two years working as a strikers’ coach for Manchester United before taking on the role of head coach for the Kenya national team last year.

In the commentary booth, Chris Coles will take the lead microphone, accompanied by former Liverpool and England full-back Stephen Warnock as co-commentator.

Philadelphia Stadium, which is staging its first-ever World Cup fixture, will host this Group E clash. The venue is set to stage a total of six World Cup matches and was notably one of the host grounds for FIFA’s expanded Club World Cup held last year.

A victory for either Ivory Coast or Ecuador would see them move into second place in Group E, following Germany’s dominant 7-1 win over Curacao in their opening match.