Sebastian Beccacece announced his intention to step down as Ecuador head coach after his side exited the World Cup on Tuesday with defeat to Mexico.Ecuador were eliminated at the last-32 stage following a 2-0 loss to the co-hosts in Mexico City.Beccacece, 45, told reporters after Wednesday’s defeat that he would not be continuing in the role, explaining that although his side did not achieve what he had hoped, he was proud of “what we built”.“Our contract ended with the World Cup. I don’t think we were able to achieve the feat we promised: to make this the best World Cup ever. Today it’s my turn to say goodbye,” Beccacece said, in quotes carries by Reuters.He continued in his post-match press conference: “I have gratitude — gratitude for the people, gratitude for the players who gave their hearts. This has been a painful evening but I leave with good memories of the dressing room tonight. After the match, talking with the boys… they were two beautiful hours.
“We built a family. We didn’t achieve what I said we would, but I feel complete. I know what we built.”Secrets of World Cup stadium playlistsBeccacece was appointed Ecuador head coach in the summer of 2024 following his departure from Spanish side Elche.The Argentine led Ecuador to the 2026 World Cup following an impressive qualification campaign, finishing second behind Argentina in the South American qualifying standings, ahead of Colombia, Uruguay and Brazil, and conceding just five goals in 18 games.Ecuador were beaten by Ivory Coast and drew with World Cup debutants Curacao in their opening two group fixtures at this summer’s tournament, with Beccacece attracting criticism from supporters for the team’s style of play.However, they secured a famous 2-1 victory over Germany in their final group game to qualify for the knockout stages as one of eight best third-place teams, with Ecuador’s president Daniel Noboa calling a national holiday in celebration.Ecuador’s World Cup hopes were ended on Tuesday following first-half goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez as Mexico eased to a comfortable victory.
