Ecuador’s Enner Valencia scored twice within the World Cup opener in opposition to Qatar however was then pressured off with an harm, which he hopes is not critical.
- Ecuador beat Qatar 2-0
- Valencia baggage brace
- Compelled off late on
WHAT HAPPENED? The Ecuador captain has supplied an harm replace after he scored each targets in La Tri’s 2-0 win over Qatar on Sunday. Valencia had to get replaced within the second half of the match after limping off within the 77th minute, however is hopeful of enjoying in Ecuador’s second group match in opposition to the Netherlands on Friday.
WHAT THEY SAID: “The docs will assess me, however I hope to play within the second recreation in opposition to Holland,” he advised reporters after the win.
The Ecuador captain additionally spoke of his delight at scoring in opposition to Qatar. “Ever for the reason that draw came about I dreamt about this recreation. I dreamt about enjoying on this opening recreation and profitable – so it truly is a dream come true,” he added. “These video games are about moments. We have been capable of rating two early targets and it allowed us to take management.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Ecuador will probably be sweating on Valencia’s health after his spectacular show within the World Cup opener. The attacker was a bit unlucky to not rating a hat-trick after seeing an early purpose chalked off for offside.
IN THREE PHOTOS:
GettyGetty
Getty
DID YOU KNOW? At 33 years and 16 days outdated, Valencia grew to become the oldest participant to attain the opening purpose at a single version of the World Cup.
WHAT NEXT FOR VALENCIA? The Fenerbahce striker does have a while to get better earlier than Friday’s conflict with the Netherlands. Ecuador then full their group marketing campaign in opposition to Senegal on Tuesday, November 29.