Daniel Valencia made a significant impact in Colombian football by scoring the winning goal for América de Cali in their recent match against Independiente Santa Fe. This victory, marked by Valencia's goal, indicates that his impressive performance in the 2025 season is not just a one-off. His abilities as a forward have been widely recognized, and this match serves to highlight his growing prominence in international football.

However, the response that gained the most attention came from Manta FC, Valencia's former club, which posted a sarcastic message on social media about the circumstances surrounding his potential selection for the Ecuadorian national team. The message referenced past controversies regarding coach Becca's decisions to exclude Valencia from the team, sparking discussions among fans and analysts about the forward's eligibility and the politics of national team selections.

Valencia, who is 29 years old and hails from Esmeraldas, has been a focal point of conversation among supporters throughout 2025, with many advocating for his inclusion in the national team based on his scoring prowess. The irony of Manta FC's comment illuminates ongoing tensions within Ecuador's football community regarding how players are selected for international duty, particularly those demonstrating remarkable form in domestic leagues.