Sebastián Beccacece Resigns as Ecuador Head Coach

Sebastián Beccacece has resigned as Ecuador head coach after La Tri's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end with a 2-0 defeat to co-hosts Mexico in the Round of 32.

The Argentine coach confirmed his departure during his post-match press conference at the Estadio Azteca, revealing that his contract with the Ecuadorian Football Federation had concluded with the team's World Cup campaign.

"Our contract ended with the World Cup," Beccacece said.

"I don't think we achieved what we set out to do, which was to make this Ecuador's best World Cup ever. Today, it's my turn to say goodbye."

The 45-year-old admitted the decision was painful but acknowledged that Ecuador's elimination marked the natural end of his tenure.

"I would have liked to continue because of the support I received from the players and the federation," he said. "But I understand how football works. It hurts, yet I believe this is the right decision."

Beccacece also accepted responsibility for Ecuador's performance against Mexico, admitting his side struggled to cope with the hosts in the opening half.

"We were outplayed in the first half," he said. "We responded after the break, but we couldn't find the goal that would have changed the momentum."

Appointed in August 2024 following the departure of Félix Sánchez, Beccacece guided Ecuador through a successful qualification campaign, leading the South American side to second place in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers behind Argentina.

During his time in charge, Ecuador recorded nine wins, 12 draws and only three defeats, while one of the highlights of his tenure came at the World Cup, where his youthful squad secured an impressive 2-1 victory over Germany to reach the knockout stage.

Despite the disappointing conclusion to the tournament, Beccacece praised his players and expressed pride in the foundation they have built.

"The legacy belongs to the players because they represented the youngest Ecuador team," he said. "I have no complaints, only gratitude toward the players and the people. The affection they showed me means everything, and I will always treasure it."

The Ecuadorian Football Federation is now expected to begin its search for a new head coach ahead of the next international cycle.