Ecuador striker Énner Valencia scored a World Cup-best third goal in a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands on Friday
Release Date – 11:40 PM, Fri – 25 November 22
AP Photo
Allen: Ecuador striker Énner Valencia scored a World Cup-best third goal in a 1-1 draw with the Netherlands on Friday to knock hosts Qatar out.
The draw gave the Netherlands and Ecuador a point each, moving them up to four points in Group A. Qatar have zero points after losing 3-1 to Senegal a few hours ago.
Ecuador dominated the game for most of the game after Cody Gakpo’s strike from the edge of the box gave the Netherlands a sixth-minute lead. It was Qatar’s fastest goal so far.
Ecuador equalized in the 49th minute as Valencia headed into an empty net after Pervis Estupiñán’s shot was pushed away by goalkeeper Andries Noppert
Valencia’s third goal in Qatar – after scoring twice in Sunday’s 2-0 win over the hosts – continued his tally of six goals at the Ecuador World Cup since the start of the tournament in 2014. Goal winning streak.
Almost the entire Ecuadorian team celebrated the goal with their inspirational captain. It kneels in a circle at the Khalifa International Stadium and points towards the night sky, creating a powerful image of unity.
Ecuador almost scored a well-deserved winner a few minutes later when the Dutch crossbar was hit by Gonzalo Plata’s left-footed effort.
Ecuador take on Senegal on Tuesday and need only a draw to advance, while the Netherlands take on Qatar.
