World Cup 2026: Sebastián Becasé steps down as Ecuador boss

Ecuador manager Sebastian Bequez has said he is stepping down after his side’s World Cup exit against Mexico.

Lead the way for the South American country of Argentina For a famous comeback win Germany in their final group match to set up a last-32 tie against fellow hosts.

But there was Ecuador Beat Mexico comfortably 2-0 To retire from the World Cup.

“Our contract ends with the World Cup,” said Bekases, who was appointed in August 2024.

“I don’t think we were able to achieve what we promised: to make it the best World Cup ever. It’s my turn to say goodbye.

“That’s why I have to leave. I would have liked to continue because what I received from the players and the management ensured the possibility of continuing. But I understand how it works and it hurts, but I think the decision was clear.”

Backes is the seventh manager involved in the World Cup following the departures of Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay), Steve Clarke (Scotland), Miroslav Kobek (Czech Republic), Ronald Koeman (Netherlands), Sabri Lamaouchi (Tunisia) and Hong Myung-bo (South Korea).

Ecuador were beaten 1–0 by Ivory Coast in their first Group E game, and Curacao drew goalless in their second game.

They lost by one goal to Germany in the final group game but recovered to win 2–1 and advance to the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.

The win sealed Ecuador’s place in the knockout stages for the second time in their history.

Bequez admitted his side were “outplayed” in the first half by Mexico, who scored goals from Julián Quinones and Raul Jimenez before half-time.

“We fought back, but we couldn’t find the goals that would encourage us,” Bekases said.