FIFA World Cup: Ecuador sweats on Valencia’s fitness ahead of Netherlands clash
The HinduEcuador is awaiting further tests on veteran striker Enner Valencia before deciding whether he is fit enough to start against the Netherlands in Friday’s clash of the Group A joint leaders, coach Gustavo Alfaro said. The 33-year-old scored both goals in Ecuador’s opening 2-0 win against Qatar and is pivotal to its World Cup hopes, but he limped off late in that game with a knee strain. Let’s give it the benefit of the doubt and hope he responds well in this afternoon’s training.” Alfaro said the pressure was off Ecuador given the Netherlands’ higher ranking and presumed superiority. What we did against Qatar will be insufficient against Holland or Senegal, we have to improve.” Midfielder Jhegson Mendez said Ecuador could take heart from some surprise results so far in the tournament, including Saudi Arabia’s defeat of Argentina.
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Mexico vs Ecuador highlights, MEX 0-0 ECU, Copa America 2024: La Tri qualifies for quarterfinals as Group B runners up
The Hindu
Enner Valencia injury update: Ecuador captain and Golden Boot leader at Qatar 2022 stretchered off in Netherlands match
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‘The atmosphere was great’: Qatar coach hails fans despite mass exodus during Ecuador defeat
The Independent
Enner Valencia underlines World Cup heritage with opening brace against Qatar
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