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Beccacece resigns as Ecuador head coach after World Cup exit
01st July, 2026 02:56 PM
Sebastian Beccacece has confirmed he is leaving his position as Ecuador’s head coach following the team’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup at the hands of Mexico on Wednesday, July 1, 2026.
Speaking after Ecuador’s 2-0 defeat to the tournament co-hosts in the round of 32, Beccacece explained that his contract concludes at the end of the World Cup and said it was the right moment to walk away.
Beccacece speaks
“My contract ends as soon as the World Cup is over, and since we didn’t achieve what we promised, the best thing is to step aside,” he said.
The Argentine also expressed appreciation to Ecuadorian Football Federation president Francisco Egas and the federation for their backing during his tenure.
“I’m grateful to the president [Francisco Egas] for his trust and the freedom he gave me, and also to the federation. I’m leaving a role that I value greatly. We’ve built a legacy,” he said.
Beccacece, 45, took over Ecuador in August 2024 and oversaw 24 matches, recording nine victories, 12 draws and only three defeats.
During his spell in charge, he guided the national team from an inconsistent beginning in the South American World Cup qualifying campaign to a second-place finish behind Argentina in the final standings.
His side also enjoyed an impressive 19-game unbeaten streak before it was ended by a 1-0 loss to Côte d’Ivoire in Ecuador’s opening World Cup fixture on June 14.
Tournament’s reflection
Reflecting on the team’s tournament exit, Beccacece accepted full responsibility for the disappointing result against Mexico.
“This group of players had created hope and expectation during the time we’ve been together,” he said. “Mexico clearly outplayed us and that’s obviously my responsibility. We didn’t do what we do best and we deserved to lose.”
He concluded by thanking both his players and the Ecuadorian public for their support throughout his time with the national team.
“I’m grateful to all the players and to the country for this journey and this adventure alongside them. I just want to say ‘thank you’,” he explained.
