Players of Ecuador celebrate after the 2026 FIFA World Cup First Stage Group E match between Ecuador and Germany at New Jersey Stadium (MetLife Stadium) in East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, on June 25, 2026. Sathire Kelpa / Anadolu (Photo by Sathire Kelpa / ANADOLU / Anadolu via AFP)
President Daniel Noboa has declared Friday a nationwide public holiday after Ecuador stunned Germany 2-1 to qualify for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The declaration came shortly after Ecuador secured a historic victory over the four-time world champions at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, advancing beyond the group stage for only the second time in the country’s history.
In a post on X on Friday, Noboa praised the players and coaching crew for overcoming criticism to deliver the result.
“Thanks to the players and the coach who, despite the criticism, the insults, and the tough times they went through, managed to bounce back and bring this immense joy to the entire country. Tomorrow, holiday! Long live Ecuador,” he wrote. Related News Venezuela earthquakes: UN mobilises support to help victims Three African teams through to World Cup round of 32 Japan coach hopes World Cup success inspires Asian rivals
