Ecuador out to prove a point

But after beating Poland in their opening game and causing the first shock of the tournament, Ecuador are climbing to new heights once again.

Victory for the South Americans against Costa Rica would put them into the second round for the first time unless Poland beat Germany on Wednesday night.

Ecuador coach Luis Fernando Suarez expects the Central Americans to prove tougher opponents than Poland. 8220;It8217;s going to be a completely different game8230; It is a more dangerous game for us than against Poland,8221; he said.

After losing 4-2 to hosts Germany in the tournament8217;s opening game, Costa Rica must go for all three points to stand any chance of progressing. 8220;This is a vital game for us. We know what we do against Ecuador will make or break the World Cup for us,8221; Costa Rica midfielder Walter Centeno said.

Referee: Coffi Codjia Benin Assistant referees: Celestin Ntagungira Rwanda 038; Aboudou Aderodjou Benin; Fourth Official: Mohamed Guezzaz Morocco Stand-by: Brahim Djezzar Algeria

Darren Ennis