Jimenez and Lira return as Mexico face Ecuador in World Cup Round of 32

Mexico head coach Javier Aguirre has recalled Raul Jimenez and Erik Lira to his starting lineup for Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Ecuador at the Estadio Azteca.

After resting several key players in Mexico’s final group-stage match against the Czech Republic, with top spot in Group A already secured, Aguirre has restored a number of first-choice names for the knockout encounter.

Jimenez returns to spearhead the attack, while Lira slots back into midfield as Mexico look to book their place in the last 16.

Captain Edson Alvarez starts on the bench, with experienced defender Cesar Montes taking over the captain’s armband.

Meanwhile, Ecuador boss Sebastian Beccacece has kept faith with the side that pulled off a memorable 2-1 victory over Germany in the final group match to seal qualification for the knockout stage.

Veteran striker Enner Valencia leads Ecuador’s attack as he looks to add to his national-record tally of 49 international goals.

Mexico XI: Raul Rangel, Jorge Sanchez, Cesar Montes (c), Johan Vasquez, Jesus Gallardo, Erik Lira, Luis Romo, Gilberto Mora, Raul Jimenez, Julian Quinones, Roberto Alvarado.

Ecuador XI: Hernan Galindez, Piero Hincapie, Joel Ordonez, Willian Pacho, Pedro Vite, Alan Franco, Moises Caicedo, John Yeboah, Enner Valencia, Gonzalo Plata, Nilson Angulo.