Tue Sep 09 23:20:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided information:
**Valencia Scores in Milestone Match, Ecuador Falls to Argentina**
**QUITO, Ecuador -** Enner Valencia, affectionately known as “Superman” to Ecuadorian fans, marked his 100th appearance for the national team with a crucial goal against Argentina. The veteran striker calmly converted a penalty in the final moments of the first half of Wednesday’s World Cup Qualifying match. While the final result saw Argentina leading the qualifiers with a total of 38 points with 12 victories, 2 draws and only 4 losses. Ecuador is left to wonder how much more Valencia will add to his record, having amassed 47 goals overall with the national team, 15 of which have been in the World Cup Qualifiers, second highest scorer.
“This group gives it their face, their heart,” Valencia said after the match, highlighting the team’s commitment.
Valencia’s goal broke Ecuador’s recent scoring drought and ignited the crowd, even on an Argentina victory. However, it remains to be seen if this will be his last goal for “La Tri.” Many feel this could be his last, but fans hope he can continue to add to his tally and potentially surpass Ecuadorian legend Agustín Delgado.
Meanwhile, Argentina secured its top spot in the qualifiers after 18 matches, with a total of 38 points, showing solid lead in South American qualifications. In other news, Lionel Messi finished as the top scorer in the South American qualifiers. With a total of 8 goals. Brazil had its worst-ever performance in a Conmebol World Cup Qualifying campaign, finishing in fifth place and losing to Bolivia.
First Piper 