Emelec narrows the gap to six points in the title race after a 2-1 win over El Nacional, while Independiente del Valle and Manta FC played to a 0-0 draw at Jocay Stadium.
Ismael Rescalvo, the Spanish coach now 43, is set to deploy only one change to the XI used in the victory over the Puros Criollos, bringing in Argentine center-back Gastón Campi to replace Alex Rangel in the back line of the Yellow Submarine. The tentative starting lineup for the Icemen of the Port (Idolo del Astillero) is:
Ignacio De Arruabarrena; Bryan Carabalí, Xavier Arreaga, Gastón Campi, Gustavo Vallecilla; Johnny Quiñonez, Jean Montaño; Brian Oyola, Joaquín Valiente, Jánner Corozo; Miguel Parrales.
Context and outlook:
– Campi’s return to the lineup should bolster the central defense and complement Arreaga, giving Rescalvo more solidity at the back.
– The win over Nacional tightens the battle at the top, with Emelec chasing the leaders known as the Matagigantes.
– Independiente del Valle’s goalless draw at Manta keeps the Valle del Fértil team within reach of the title contenders, but the points dropped could impact their momentum in upcoming fixtures.
Summary: Emelec closed the gap to six points behind the leaders after a 2-1 triumph over Nacional, while Independiente del Valle and Manta FC split the points in a 0-0 stalemate. Campi is slated to slot into the defense in the upcoming lineup.
Note: If you’d like, I can tailor this with a tighter tactical breakdown or add player profiles for Campi and the other starters.