Ecuador defender Giovanny Espinoza is confident he can win his personal battle with Costa Rica star Paulo Wanchope when the two teams meet on Thursday.

Espinoza will have the task of marking the former Manchester City striker in Ecuador's second Group A clash.

Wanchope struck twice in the Costa Ricans' 4-2 defeat against Germany in their opening game and with his nation needing a triumph to keep their tournament hopes alive, all eyes will be on the enigmatic frontman.

"I have faced players who have enormous talent, players who were very agile and strong, and I have won those duels many times," said Espinoza.

However, Espinoza believes Wanchope is not the only man to watch out for.

"Costa Rica are not only Wanchope," he said.

"They are very strong in every department and we will have to give the same respect to every player.

"The important thing is to stop our rivals from getting through our defensive line and scoring."

Ecuador will have an added reason to beat Alexandre Guimaraes' men, for a win would see them through to the next round.

They clinched only their second victory in the World Cup finals when they defeated Poland 2-0 on Friday.

That win has given them a big boost in confidence.

"All the teams that are here want to make history," said Espinoza. "We are making ours and it's the only thing we are interested in.

"That is why we are working with humbleness, dedication and strength."

Costa Rica midfielder Mauricio Solis has warned Ecuador they will give them a real fight.

"We will take the initiative from the start," he said.

"We will set the pace, knowing that Ecuador will be happy to settle for a draw.

"I think we already showed what we can do against Germany, who were not easy opponents, and we know we have the quality to win."