Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa declared a national holiday for Friday following the country's dramatic 2-1 World Cup victory over Germany. The win secured Ecuador's spot in the last-32 of the tournament.
Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata scored for Ecuador in their final Group E match on Thursday, coming from behind to defeat the four-time World Cup champions. The team had entered the match needing a victory after a previous loss to Ivory Coast and a draw with Curacao.
President Noboa announced the holiday via his official X account, expressing gratitude to the players and coach. "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," he posted. "Tomorrow, a holiday! Long live Ecuador."
The victory marks a significant achievement for Ecuador, as it is the first time the national team has advanced from the group stages since the 2006 World Cup. They are now one of the eight best third-place teams advancing to the knockout stages.