Junior Sornoza, a mainstay for Independiente del Valle, spoke to the press ahead of the big LigaPro clash with Emelec. The Negriazules will travel to Estadio George Capwell on Sunday at 17:30 local time for a match that could shape the title race.
The meeting is pivotal for both sides. IDV aims to keep their lead at a time when Emelec is pushing to climb into the hexagonal final standings. Independiente del Valle just secured a Sudamericana spot on the back of a dramatic win over Mushuc Runa and now want to extend that momentum against the Azuls in league play.
“Emelec comes from a long winning streak, but we have to seize the opportunity to add points and become champions,” Sornoza said.
Emelec, meanwhile, have not tasted defeat since Guillermo Duró took the helm, signaling a rejuvenated squad overseeing a strong run of form. Independiente del Valle could opt for a rotated lineup to rest some of their regular starters, given the congested schedule and the looming fixture list.
Javier Rabanal’s team will also have the advantage of knowing how their direct rivals fared in other fixtures: Barcelona and Liga de Quito are in action against Vinotinto and El Nacional, respectively, which could influence the tactical approach for this Sunday’s showdown.
Head-to-head history between the clubs offers an intriguing backdrop:
– Independiente del Valle 1-2 Emelec, May 4, 2025 (LigaPro regular season)
– Independiente del Valle 2-1 Emelec, Sept 14, 2024 (LigaPro, round 2)
– Emelec 0-0 Independiente del Valle, Mar 31, 2024 (LigaPro, round 1)
– Independiente del Valle 2-1 Emelec, Sept 30, 2023 (LigaPro, round 2)
– Emelec 2-3 Independiente del Valle, Apr 28, 2023 (LigaPro, round 1)
– Emelec 2-3 Independiente del Valle, Jul 17, 2022 (LigaPro, round 2)
Where to watch live: the match will be broadcast on El Canal del Fútbol and Zapping. You can also follow live minute-by-minute updates on Olé’s website.
Arbiters for the game are:
– Main referee: Anthony Díaz
– Assistant 1: Mauricio Lozada
– Assistant 2: Ricardo Valdiviezo
– VAR: Geovanny Romero
What to watch for in this clash: a high-stakes duel between two of Ecuador’s title contenders, with IDV seeking to maintain their advantage at the top and Emelec aiming to keep the momentum going and close the gap at the summit.
Context and outlook: this rivalry has produced exciting encounters in recent seasons, and with Duró’s winless run snapped or extended, the result could have a meaningful impact on the standings as the season moves toward the hexagonal phase. Expect a competitive, tightly fought match with tactical nuance and decisive moments that could define the next phase of LigaPro.