World Cup 2026: Ecuador Declares Public Holiday After Victory Over Germany to Reach the Round of 32

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced a national holiday following the national team’s surprising 2‑1 win over Germany, which secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage.

He made the announcement on X on Friday, commending the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism and achieving a historic result.

Thanks to the players and the coach, who, despite criticism, insults, and difficult moments, managed to recover and bring immense joy to the nation. Tomorrow is a holiday! he wrote.

Ecuador entered Thursday’s final Group E match needing a win after a draw with Curaçao and a loss to Ivory Coast in the preceding games.

The South Americans trailed early against Germany but staged an impressive comeback to secure a 2‑1 victory, sparking jubilant celebrations among thousands of fans at the sold‑out New York/New Jersey stadium.

Despite the loss, Germany had already qualified as Group E winners, and Ivory Coast finished second after defeating Curaçao 2‑0.

Ecuador advanced to the knockout stage as one of the tournament’s eight best third‑placed teams, becoming only the second nation to reach the World Cup knockout rounds after its 2006 appearance in the Round of 16 in Germany.