World Cup hero Valencia limps off injured after scoring Ecuador brace

Ecuador hero Enner Valencia endured a heartbreaking end to his opening World Cup match after being forced off with an injury against Qatar as the tournament got underway at Al Bayt Stadium. The former West Ham forward had been involved with a disallowed goal before scoring twice for his nation, but injury robbed him of the chance of a memorable hat-trick when he limped off in the second half.

Valencia appeared to hold his knee as he limped off as he was substituted in the second half, denying him a historic hat-trick in the opening game. The experienced striker had already suffered a hamstring injury in the first half but emerged after the interval before sustaining a separate injury which forced him to be withdrawn.

However, the former West Ham and Everton striker would have been pleased to have played a key role in his side’s victory as Ecuador opened their tournament with a convincing win.

The 33-year-old was one of the players to make a real difference in the opening game as fans flocked to the World Cup venue to watch the hosts in their first-ever game. But it was Ecuador who dominated throughout on their way to a comfortable 2-0 win, with Valencia scoring both goals.

READ MORE: Qatar World Cup chaos as fan park full before hosts’ match vs Ecuador

It was initially looked like Ecuador had taken the lead after just 160 seconds with an incisive header after a defensive nightmare from the hosts. However, referee Daniele Orsato consulted with VAR officials who deemed the goal was offside.

The header, which came after just 160 seconds, would have been the fastest ever goal at a World Cup finals as Valencia and Ecuador were denied a priceless piece of history.

There was confusion inside the ground and for viewers at home as it was not made clear why the goal was ruled out. But it later emerged that Felix Torres was offside once FIFA’s automatic VAR system had reviewed the incident.

We’ll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: express.co.uk/sport/football

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow us on Twitter @dexpress_sport – the official Daily Express & Express.co.uk Twitter account – providing real news in real time.

We’re also on Facebook @dailyexpresssport – offering your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day to like, comment and share from the Daily Express, Sunday Express and Express.co.uk.