Ecuador erupted in celebration after stunning Germany 2-1 at New Jersey Stadium, with President Daniel Noboa declaring a nationwide holiday to mark the historic FIFA 2026 World Cup victory.
The shock triumph secured Ecuador’s place in the Round of 32, marking only the second time in the nation’s history that La Tri have progressed beyond the World Cup group stage.
President Noboa praised the team’s resilience in a post on X, hailing the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism to deliver a memorable result.
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“Thanks to the players and the coach who, despite the criticism, the insults, and the tough times they went through, managed to bounce back and bring this immense joy to the entire country. Tomorrow, holiday! Long live Ecuador,” he wrote.
Ecuador entered the decisive Group E encounter under immense pressure after losing 1-0 to Côte d’Ivoire and drawing 0-0 with Curaçao, leaving victory over four-time world champions Germany as their only route into the knockout stage.
Against the odds, Sebastián Beccacece’s side produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, sparking wild celebrations across Ecuador.
In the capital, Quito, fans flooded the streets as car horns blared and supporters gathered in public squares to celebrate. In the United States, home to more than 800,000 Ecuadorians, supporters packed the stadium and vastly outnumbered German fans.
Beccacece, who took charge of Ecuador in 2024, said his team remained united despite mounting criticism following the goalless draw with Curaçao, with reports suggesting the backlash even affected his family.
Describing his players as “warriors,” the Argentine coach also revealed a symbolic moment before kick-off when veteran striker Enner Valencia handed the captain’s armband to midfielder Moisés Caicedo.
“That shows you the beauty we have in the team: charisma, unity, and admiration. It was like a father passing the baton to his child. Enner is the living heritage and legacy of Ecuador,” Beccacece said.
The victory not only sealed Ecuador’s place in the knockout stage but also delivered one of the country’s greatest moments on the World Cup stage.
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