Ecuador has declared a national holiday after its football team shocked Germany 2-1 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. President Daniel Noboa announced the holiday on Friday to celebrate the team’s historic victory and qualification for the knockout stage. Germany took an early lead through Leroy Sané however, Ecuador responded quickly.
Nilson Angulo scored the equalizer in the ninth minute later, Gonzalo Plata netted the winning goal in the 77th minute to seal a memorable comeback.
The victory secured Ecuador’s place in the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third placed teams. After the final whistle, President Noboa praised the players and coaching staff for their determination.
He then signed Executive Decree 431, making Friday a non-recoverable national holiday for both the public and private sectors.
However, essential services such as hospitals, emergency response and utilities will continue to operate.
This is only the second time Ecuador has reached the World Cup knockout stage. The country’s first appearance came at the 2006 tournament. The victory also came after a difficult start. Ecuador lost to Ivory Coast and drew with Curaçao before beating Germany in a must-win match.
Thousands of Ecuadorian fans celebrated inside the stadium and across the country after the final whistle.
Meanwhile, coach Sebastián Beccacece described the result as the biggest World Cup victory in Ecuador’s history. He also urged supporters to enjoy the moment while staying focused on the next challenge.
The team will now prepare for the Round of 32 as the nation continues its celebrations.
