Ecuador President Daniel Noboa declared a national holiday after La Tri stunned Germany 2-1 to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams.
Ecuador’s dramatic qualification for the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup sparked nationwide celebrations, with President Daniel Noboa declaring a national holiday following La Tri’s memorable 2-1 victory over Germany.
The announcement came shortly after Ecuador secured one of the tournament’s best third-placed qualification spots with a remarkable comeback win.
Needing all three points to keep their World Cup dream alive, Ecuador faced a daunting challenge against a Germany side that had already secured top spot in Group E. The South Americans entered the match knowing anything less than victory would almost certainly end their campaign.
The task became even more difficult when Germany struck first, putting Ecuador under immediate pressure. However, rather than allowing the early setback to derail them, Sebastián Beccacece’s side responded with determination, gradually growing into the contest and finding the attacking spark they had lacked earlier in the group stage.
Ecuador’s persistence eventually paid off as they fought back to level the score before producing the decisive goal that completed a stunning 2-1 turnaround. Their disciplined defending and relentless work ethic ensured they protected their advantage until the final whistle, sealing one of the biggest results in the nation’s football history.
The victory proved enough to send Ecuador through as one of the eight best third-placed teams after they had previously suffered defeat to Ivory Coast and been held to a frustrating goalless draw by Curacao. Their resilience in the decisive group fixture earned them a deserved place in the Round of 32.
A special moment for Moisés Caicedo and Ecuador. 💛#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/vndqOwejgL
— FIFA Club Football (@FIFACF) June 25, 2026
President Daniel Noboa quickly joined the celebrations, praising both the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism and difficult moments during the tournament.
In a message posted on X, he thanked the squad for bringing joy to the country before announcing that Friday would be observed as a national holiday in honour of their achievement.
Supporters inside the sold-out New York/New Jersey stadium erupted at the final whistle, while celebrations spread rapidly across Ecuador as fans marked only the country’s second-ever qualification for the World Cup knockout stages. Germany still finished as Group E winners, while Ivory Coast secured second place after defeating Curacao.
Ecuador will now prepare for the knockout rounds with renewed confidence, hoping to build on the momentum created by their historic comeback against one of world football’s traditional powerhouses. Having previously reached the Round of 16 in 2006, La Tri now have another opportunity to write a new chapter in their World Cup history.
