Argentine manager Sebastian Beccacece has confirmed that he will step down as head coach of the Ecuador national team following their elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ecuador’s World Cup journey came to an end after a 2-0 defeat against co-hosts Mexico on Wednesday morning in the Round of 32, played at the iconic Estadio Azteca.
A Historic but Short-Lived Campaign
“La Tricolor” entered the knockout match full of confidence following a historic comeback victory over Germany in their final Group E game. That win had propelled Ecuador into the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in 20 years.
Reflecting on his departure after the Mexico match, the Argentine tactician expressed his gratitude:
“Today it’s time to say goodbye to a beautiful, wonderful family. I leave with deep gratitude, great serenity, and a sense of inner peace. We’ve given it our all,” Beccacece stated.
He added: “It was a two-and-a-half-year journey of working nonstop, giving our all, with great honesty and transparency.”
Beccacece’s Legacy with Ecuador
Beccacece took charge of Ecuador in August 2024 and enjoyed a highly successful tenure. Under his leadership, Ecuador finished second in the grueling South American World Cup qualifiers—just behind world champions Argentina—to secure direct qualification for the 2026 tournament.
