World Cup supervisor resigns straight after knockout recreation as grievance made to FIFA
A World Cup manager has dramatically quit immediately after his side were knocked out of the tournament and the country has submitted a formal complaint to FIFA
Ecuador manager Sebastian Beccacece has resigned(Image: Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
Ecuador manager Sebastian Beccacece has confirmed he will resign following his team’s World Cup loss to Mexico. Beccacece could only watch on as his side lost 2-0 to the tournament hosts in the last 32.
Ecuador had been tipped as potential dark horses to make a deep run in the competition, with stars like Moises Caicedo spearheading their squad. They fell short against Mexico as Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez netted first-half strikes before Piero Hincapie was sent off in the 95th minute.
Beccacece assumed control of the Ecuador role in 2024 following stints with Elche, Defensa y Justicia and Racing Club. The country secured World Cup qualification after claiming second spot in the South American table above Brazil, Colombia and Uruguay, shipping just five goals in 18 fixtures.
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However, Ecuador barely squeezed into the knockout phase after defeating Germany in their final group encounter. They progressed as one of the eight best third-placed sides.
The 45-year-old has now declared it is time to bid farewell to the position, with his deal due to expire after their World Cup campaign. Beccacece feels he fell short of his ambitions for the team.
“Our contract ended with the World Cup. I don’t think we were able to achieve the feat we promised: to make this the best World Cup ever. Today it’s my turn to say goodbye,” Beccacece said. “I have gratitude – gratitude for the people, gratitude for the players who gave their hearts.
“This has been a painful evening but I leave with good memories of the dressing room tonight. After the match, talking with the boys… they were two beautiful hours.
“We built a family. We didn’t achieve what I said we would, but I feel complete. I know what we built.”
Ecuador’s defeat followed their approach to FIFA expressing alarm over their treatment before taking on Mexico. Fans created a late-night commotion outside Ecuador’s hotel in Mexico City, with fireworks directed at the building.
Beccacece’s players were seen peering through the curtains as the chaos continued well into the early hours. The Ecuador manager also disclosed that his team reached their hotel three hours and 20 minutes late due to unexplained hold-ups with their flight and transport.
The Ecuadorian Football Federation released a statement: “Regarding certain off-the-field actions that took place prior to the Round of 16 match, the Ecuadorian Football Federation informs that it has submitted a formal complaint to the organisers, as this conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equity, and unity that a FIFA World Cup should represent.
“Therefore, the FEF respectfully calls upon the relevant authorities to pay closer attention to these incidents and to adopt the necessary measures to safeguard the integrity of our players, coaching staff, and supporters.
“We trust that these unsportsmanlike actions will not overshadow the football celebration that unites two brotherly nations and that respect, healthy competition, and fair play-which give meaning to a World Cup – will prevail at all times. Ecuador will always respond to these unsportsmanlike actions on the field.”
