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Ecuadorian Player Announces Retirement From National Team After World Cup Elimination Against Mexico
The defeat against Mexico marked the end of an era for Ecuador. Following the team's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026, Enner Valencia officially announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a historic career with La Tri.
Ecuador's elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 brought with it a major announcement that will shape the national team's future. After a 2-0 loss to Mexico in the Round of 32, Enner Valencia officially confirmed his retirement from international football, closing the chapter on a career that established him as La Tri's all-time leading scorer.
Clearly emotional after the match at the Estadio Azteca, the veteran striker revealed that it had been his final appearance wearing the Ecuadorian jersey. The team captain shared that he had already said goodbye to his teammates and coaching staff, though he admitted he wished his farewell had come under different circumstances.
Enner Valencia Brings a Historic International Career to a Close
At 36 years old, Enner Valencia leaves behind a legacy that will be difficult to match. Over 109 appearances for Ecuador, he scored 49 goals, making him the country's all-time leading scorer. Although he was unable to find the net during the 2026 World Cup, his impact in previous editions remains unforgettable.
The forward scored six World Cup goals, split evenly between Brazil 2014 and Qatar 2022. He also recorded 15 goals in South American World Cup qualifiers, five in the Copa América, and another 23 in international friendlies.
Nicknamed "Spider-Man," Valencia made his senior debut for Ecuador in 2012 under head coach Reynaldo Rueda, who converted him into a central striker after he had initially developed as a wide attacker.
A Record That May Stand for Years
Enner Valencia's departure marks the end of one of the most successful chapters in the history of Ecuadorian soccer. Beyond his goals, he served as one of the team's unquestioned leaders for more than a decade and wore the captain's armband throughout numerous international competitions.
His record of 49 international goals appears out of reach for the current generation. The closest active scorers are Gonzalo Plata with nine goals and Michael Estrada with eight, both still well behind the historic mark set by Valencia.
Although his farewell came after the painful defeat to Mexico, Enner Valencia leaves as one of the greatest players ever to represent Ecuador. His accomplishments, leadership, and goals have secured his place as a lasting icon of Ecuadorian football and the nation's all-time leading scorer.
