Ecuador Declared Holiday Over World Cup Win Against Germany To Celebrate Victory
Following Ecuador’s stunning 2-1 victory over Germany to advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stage, President Daniel Noboa declared Friday a national public holiday.
The announcement was made soon after Ecuador advanced past the group stage for the second time in its history, defeating the four-time world champions in a historic match at New York/New Jersey Stadium.
Noboa commended the players and coaching staff for overcoming criticism to produce the outcome in a post on X on Friday.
“We are grateful to the players and coach who, in spite of the insults, criticism, and difficult circumstances they faced, overcame them and brought this great joy to the entire nation. It’s a holiday tomorrow! Ecuador, long live. He penned
After losing 1-0 to Ivory Coast and drawing 0-0 with Curaçao in their first two games, Ecuador needed to win going into the Group E match.
Leroy Sané gave Germany the lead in the second minute, but Nilson Angulo tied the score in the ninth.
Ecuador secured a historic victory and a spot in the round of 16 thanks to a goal from Gonzalo Plata in the 77th minute.
With this outcome, Ecuador has only advanced past the World Cup group stage twice, matching their performance at the 2006 competition.
