Ecuador declares national holiday after reaching World Cup knockout stage

The President of Ecuador declared a national holiday on June 26 to celebrate the national team's victory over Germany, securing their spot in the World Cup knockout stage.

"Thank you to the players and coaches, who stood up and brought this immense joy to the country despite the criticism and insults they received during difficult times," Ecuador President Daniel Noboa posted on social media when announcing the national holiday on June 26.

Mr. Noboa watched the match between Ecuador and Germany live at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on June 25. Ecuador won 2-1, securing a ticket to the knockout stage for the first time since 2006.

Ecuadorian fans celebrate the victory over Germany at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on June 25. Photo: AP

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Germany, the four-time World Cup champions, quickly took a 1-0 lead just two minutes into the match. The South American team fought back with goals from Nilson Angulo in the 9th minute and Gonzalo Plata in the 77th minute to secure the final victory.

Although Germany suffered their first defeat of the tournament, the European team had already secured a spot in the next round and still topped Group E with 6 points. Ivory Coast ranked second with the same 6 points, and Ecuador ranked 3rd with 4 points.

Fans across Ecuador poured into the streets to celebrate the victory and commemorate one of the country's most memorable achievements at the World Cup.