Ecuador declares national holiday after historic World Cup qualification

Ecuador's dramatic qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been celebrated nationwide, with President Daniel Noboa declaring a national holiday on Friday, June 26, 2026, following the team's stunning victory over Germany.

The South American nation pulled off a remarkable 2-1 comeback win in their final Group E fixture to keep their World Cup dream alive.

Having entered the match needing all three points after a defeat to Ivory Coast and a draw against Curaçao, Ecuador responded in style despite falling behind early.

Their spirited turnaround sparked jubilant scenes among supporters inside the packed New York/New Jersey stadium, while celebrations quickly spread across Ecuador as fans marked one of the country's biggest football achievements.

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Reacting to the victory, President Noboa paid tribute to the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism and adversity throughout the tournament.

"Thanks to the players and the coach who, despite the criticism, the insults, and the tough moments they went through, managed to recover and give this immense joy to the entire country. Tomorrow, a holiday!" he wrote on X.

Although Germany had already secured top spot in the group before kickoff, Ecuador's victory proved enough to send them through as one of the tournament's eight best third-placed teams. Ivory Coast joined Germany in the knockout stage after defeating Curaçao 2-0.

The qualification marks only the second time Ecuador have reached the World Cup round of 16, with their previous appearance at that stage coming at the 2006 tournament in Germany.

Gracias a los jugadores y al técnico que, a pesar de las críticas, los insultos y los malos ratos que pasaron, lograron recuperarse y darle esta inmensa alegría al país entero.

¡Mañana, feriado!

Viva el Ecuador.

— Daniel Noboa Azin (@DanielNoboaOk) June 25, 2026