Ecuador’s Enner Valencia Exits Match Against New Zealand for Club Commitment

Harrison, New Jersey – Enner Valencia, Ecuador‘s historic goal scorer, will miss the international friendly match against New Zealand on November 18. The match marks the national team’s last outing of the year.

Valencia requested to return to Mexico to join his club, Pachuca, for an important match against Pumas on November 20, which is part of Liga MX elimination play.

The forward started in Ecuador’s goalless draw against Canada in Toronto and now coach Sebastián Beccacece must adjust his lineup. Potential replacements in the attack include Kevin Rodríguez, Leonardo Campana, and Jeremy Arévalo.

Ecuador completed their training in the U.S. on November 16 without Valencia, with the rest of the team ready for the match. This game is crucial for the national squad, which has only secured one victory in their last eight outings.

The team faces New Zealand hoping to improve their FIFA ranking ahead of the World Cup 2026 draw. Ecuador’s recent performance, including three consecutive draws, has left fans eager for a more ambitious approach.

“It is important to create a process and I feel satisfied with our development. Some games leave me more pleased, while others show areas for improvement,” said Beccacece. He emphasized the need to find tactical solutions for matches.

The match against New Zealand will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET. It will be broadcasted on Canal del Fútbol and available via streaming on Zapping TV in Ecuador.

Ecuador is expected to come out with Hernán Galíndez in goal, backed by a solid defense featuring Willian Pacho and Piero Hincapié. Midfielders Moisés Caicedo and Pedro Vite will play key roles in controlling the game, while John Yeboah, along with other forwards, aim to convert opportunities into goals.

New Zealand’s Alex Paulsen will start in goal, supported by a strong defense and striker Chris Wood leading their offense. Both teams seek to conclude their year on a high note with a win.