FIFA World Cup 2026: Ecuador declares holiday after Germany’s triumph

Ecuador declared a national holiday on Friday, June 26, after a dramatic 2-1 win over Germany sent the South Americans through to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

President Daniel Noboa made the announcement shortly after La Tri qualified as one of the eight best third-placed teams in the tournament.

This result marks only the second time Ecuador has reached the knockout stages of the World Cup, equaling their achievement in the 2006 tournament in Germany.

Sebastian Beccacece’s side had scored just one point in their first two games and suffered a setback when Germany scored within two minutes. Leroy Sane finished from Florian Wirtz’s pass to give the Europeans the lead. Ecuador responded quickly. Nilson Angulo restored parity seven minutes later, calmly slotting past Manuel Neuer after Pablo Vite slipped him through on goal.

With the match heading towards the final stage, Gonzalo Plata produced the decisive moment. His goal 13 minutes from time completed the comeback and secured one of Ecuador’s most memorable World Cup victories.

Noboa praised the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism and difficult moments to keep Ecuador’s World Cup campaign alive.