Piero Hincapié apologises after red card ends Ecuador World Cup

Arsenal defender Piero Hincapié has apologised to Ecuador supporters after his red card against Mexico brought his World Cup campaign to a painful end.

The 24-year-old started all four of Ecuador’s matches at the tournament, but his dismissal during the defeat to Mexico left Sebastián Beccacece’s side facing elimination.

Speaking to Extra after returning home, Hincapié admitted emotions had taken over during the incident and accepted responsibility for his actions.

“It was because of the heat of the game. I forgot that I couldn’t cover my mouth!” Hincapié said.

“I apologise, but you can be sure I’ll always give everything for the national team.”

The Arsenal centre-back now wants Ecuador to use the disappointment as motivation ahead of future international competitions.

“This will shape us for future competitions,” he added. “We hope to achieve better things and continue growing as a group.”

Hincapié’s tournament had been an important one before the red card. He started every Ecuador match and remained a key part of Beccacece’s defence until the defeat to Mexico ended their campaign.

The defender also reflected on the leadership figures who have shaped his career.

Ecuador will eventually have to move forward without experienced players such as Enner Valencia and Hernán Galíndez, and Hincapié admitted replacing their influence will bring significant responsibility for the next generation.

“It’s a huge responsibility to continue without them because they’ve been role models for us,” he said. “But I think everyone will give everything so Ecuador keeps growing.”

Hincapié also named former Bayer Leverkusen team-mate Granit Xhaka as one of the players from whom he has learned the most.

“I’ve learned a lot from the players I’ve shared a dressing room with. Enner Valencia with the national team and Granit Xhaka during my time at Bayer Leverkusen are people you can always learn from.”

Hincapié will have a short break in Ecuador before returning to North London for pre-season.

His focus will now shift towards Arsenal as Mikel Arteta’s squad prepare for another Premier League campaign. Having signed a contract until 2031 earlier this summer, the Ecuador international remains an important part of the club’s defensive plans.

The challenge now is to move beyond his World Cup disappointment and turn the experience into something positive.

Hincapié will now turn his attention back to club football after his World Cup ended in disappointment.

The defender is expected to join Arsenal’s pre-season preparations following a short break, with the coming campaign offering him an immediate opportunity to respond positively to a difficult end to the tournament.