Ecuador President Declares National Holiday After Historic World Cup Win Over Germany

Ecuador will celebrate a national holiday today, June 26, after a dramatic 2-1 win over Germany sent the South Americans into the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

President Daniel Noboa made the announcement shortly after La Tri sealed qualification as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.

The result marks only the second time Ecuador have reached the World Cup knockout rounds, equalling their achievement at the 2006 tournament in Germany.

Sebastian Beccacece’s side had recorded just one point from their opening two matches and suffered an early setback when Germany scored inside two minutes. Leroy Sane finished from Florian Wirtz’s pass to put the Europeans ahead.

Ecuador responded swiftly. Nilson Angulo restored parity seven minutes later, calmly finishing past Manuel Neuer after Pablo Vite slipped him through on goal.

With the match heading towards its closing stages, 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.

“Thanks to the players and the coach who, despite the criticism, the insults and the difficult moments they endured, managed to bounce back and bring this immense joy to the entire country. Tomorrow is a holiday! Long live Ecuador!” he wrote on 𝕏.