Ecuador's president declares national holiday after World Cup victory over Germany
After Ecuador's crucial win against Germany in the World Cup, President Daniel Noboa announced Friday, June 26 as a national holiday.
Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who traveled to the United States to watch the match in person, declared Friday, June 26 a national holiday in Ecuador following the team's victory over Germany.
"Thank you to the players and the coach who, despite criticism, insults and difficult moments, managed to pull themselves together and bring immense joy to the entire country," the president said.
Ecuador's World Cup campaign had started with disappointment: a last-minute loss to Ivory Coast (0-1) followed by a goalless draw against Curaçao. To reach the knockout stage, they needed to beat Germany. Ecuador fell behind early but equalized and later secured the win.
This is only the second time Ecuador has advanced to the knockout stage of the World Cup. In 2006, they finished ahead of Poland and Costa Rica in the group stage but lost 0-1 to England in the round of 16.
