Sebastián Beccacece resigned as Ecuador’s national football team coach following their 2-0 defeat to Mexico in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup on June 30 in North America [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]. Mexico scored twice in the first half through Julián Quiñones and Raúl Jiménez, leaving Ecuador unable to respond despite dominating possession in the second half [1, 2, 3, 6, 7]. Beccacece acknowledged his team was outplayed early on, saying, “We were outplayed in the first half” and added, “We fought back, but we couldn't find the goal that would have given us a boost” [1, 2].
Beccacece, 45, was appointed Ecuador coach in August 2024 and led the team for roughly two years [2, 4, 5, 7, 8]. Under his guidance, Ecuador finished second in South American World Cup qualifying behind Argentina [7]. The 2026 tournament marked Ecuador’s fifth World Cup appearance but only their second time reaching the knockout stage after a dramatic comeback win against Germany in the group stage [1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8]. He described the squad as “the youngest team of Ecuador” and credited the players for their performance, saying, “The legacy is from the players” [1].
Beccacece’s contract was set to expire at the end of the World Cup, and he said he wished to continue coaching the national team. He said, “That's why I have to leave. I would have liked to continue because what I received from the players and the management warranted the possibility of continuing. But I understand how this works and it hurts, but I think the decision was clear” [2]. He expressed gratitude to fans and players, stating, “I have no complaints, only gratitude to the people and the players. I received so much gratitude and affection from the bottom of my heart” [3].
Beccacece is the seventh coach to resign following team eliminations at the 2026 World Cup [2]. His departure comes as Ecuador looks toward selecting a new head coach to lead the team after their exit from the tournament [1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8].
