Julio Enciso helped Paraguay to a dramatic win – after asking to be substituted.

The Albion forward had a weak penalty saved in the first half but was told to stay on the pitch and win the game.

He was involved in the decisive goal as his nation beat Venezuela 2-1 to remain on course for the next World Cup.

Enciso appeared close to tears when his spot kick was saved in the first half.

Paraguay boss Gustavo Alfaro said: “This was a match for men. I saw Messi, Maradona, Platini, great players miss penalties.

“I saw none of those great players surrender. On the contrary, I saw them defy the adversity of fate.

“You want me to take you out or you want to come in the second half to work for the team?

“These are the battles that make you men, it has nothing to do with age, but with the spirit you have.

“The only thing I asked him is to believe, to keep insisting and to move forward."

Enciso revealed why he asked to be taken off as emotions ran high.

That eventually happened – but only just before the end and the Albion man hugged Alfaro as he left the pitch.

Enciso said: "The coach supported me from the first day, he told me that I was one of the players that he really likes and that motivated me to be able to come in.

“I told him to take me off, because I lost focus completely.

“When I didn't score the goal I fell apart. Luckily we were able to turn things around and give the country some joy.”

"I appreciate the support I have from my team-mates. The group we have is incredible.

“The truth is that everyone supported me and thank God I was able to enter the second half differently.

“Missing a penalty is very difficult for a player, even more so with my national team, the country that I love so much.

“The truth is that it was very bad.”

Enciso produced a brilliant moment with his side 1-0 down, with a stunning cross which Miguel Almiron somehow headed over the bar.

Pervis Estupinan played until the final moments of Ecuador’s hard-earned 0-0 draw in Uruguay.