Ecuador Declares Public Holiday After Historic World Cup Victory Over Germany
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has declared Friday a nationwide public holiday after the country’s stunning 2-1 victory over Germany secured a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The announcement came shortly after Ecuador recorded one of the biggest upsets of the tournament by defeating the four-time world champions at the New York/New Jersey Stadium. The victory saw La Tri advance beyond the World Cup group stage for only the second time in the nation’s history.
In a message posted on X on Friday, President Noboa praised the players and coaching staff for their resilience in the face of criticism and adversity.
“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 pressure, having lost 1-0 to Ivory Coast before settling for a goalless draw against Curaçao in their opening two matches. A victory over Germany was their only route to the Round of 16.
Germany made a dream start, taking the lead just two minutes into the contest through Leroy Sané. However, Ecuador responded swiftly, with Nilson Angulo restoring parity in the ninth minute to ignite hopes of a famous comeback.
The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Gonzalo Plata found the back of the net, completing a remarkable turnaround and sealing a memorable victory that sent Ecuador into the last 16.
The triumph marks only the second time Ecuador have progressed beyond the World Cup group stage, matching their historic achievement at the 2006 tournament.
It also represents one of the country’s greatest moments on the global football stage and has sparked widespread celebrations across the South American nation.