The World Cup has seen a lot of big performances so far. Not from Ecuador.
Former Manchester United winger Antonio Valencia has been moved to issue an apology to Ecuador fans for the team’s performances at the World Cup.
Tipped as dark horses by some fans, Ecuador have failed to deliver.
They were defeated 1-0 by Ivory Coast thanks to a late winner from Manchester United winger Amad.
Then they drew 0-0 with international minnows Curacao. Next they face table-topping Germany.
With just one point, they are at risk of failing to get out of the group stages.
Antonio Valencia apologises
Former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia pleaded with Ecuador fans to get behind the team, apologising for the team’s results.
He wrote on social media: “I want to apologise to all the people of Ecuador, to everyone who traveled from so far away, and to those who supported the national team from the very beginning.
“We know the frustration that is felt, but we have to keep united as a country.
“Don’t be so harsh with your messages and comments toward the players; they are the ones who want most to bring joy to the country. Let’s support this new generation. There are many changes to make and a long road ahead.”
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Antonio Valencia’s own World Cup nightmare
Valencia knows how difficult it is to play at the World Cup. He was part of the Ecuador squad in 2014 that crashed out in the group stages.
He even received a straight red card in their final group match against France that confirmed their elimination.
His badly mistimed tackle on Lucas Digne capped a poor individual tournament for him individually.
The difference in 2014 was Ecuador managed four points and went out. In 2026 if they could get to four points, it would probably be enough to reach the knockout rounds.
Valencia is currently out in the USA and attended the Ecuador opener against Ivory Coast, and he can feel the frustration of the supporters.
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