Sebastian Beccacece, the Argentine coach who led Ecuador through one of their most unforgettable FIFA World Cup journeys in recent years, has announced that he will be stepping down from his position following the team's exit against Mexico. Ecuador's 2-0 loss in the Round of 32 marked the end of his contract and his tenure as head coach.
Beccacece orchestrated a thrilling comeback victory over Germany in their final Group E match, which allowed them to advance to the knockout stage after a tough start that included a 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curacao. The 2-1 win against Germany not only secured their spot as one of the best third-placed teams.
In his post-match comments, Beccacece reflected on the end of his contract
with the tournament and took responsibility for not meeting the team's aspirations. He was appointed in August 2024 and expressed a desire to continue, fueled by the backing of his players and the federation.
Seven Managers Who Left After FIFA World Cup 2026 Exit
1. Sebastián Beccacece (Ecuador)
Beccacece's exit followed closely on the heels of Ecuador's 2-0 defeat to Mexico on June 30, 2026. His contract was linked to the World Cup, and during his time with the team, Ecuador managed to secure a second-place finish behind Argentina in the South American qualifiers.
2. Ronald Koeman (Netherlands)
Koeman's second spell as Netherlands coach began in January 2023. His side topped Group F with two wins and a draw before losing to Morocco on penalties in the Round of 32. He resigned on June 29 after deciding not to extend his contract.
3. Marcelo Bielsa (Uruguay)
Bielsa was at the helm during Uruguay's rebuilding phase, but unfortunately, the team couldn't make it past the group stage. After the last Group H match against Spain, he stepped down on June 30.
4. Steve Clarke (Scotland)
Clarke led the Scotland national team for seven years starting in 2019, achieving an impressive 36 wins, the highest number for any Scotland manager. Under his guidance, the team wrapped up their campaign in Group C, finishing third and unfortunately missing the chance to advance to the Round of 32. He stepped down on June 28, expressing that it was time for a new beginning.
5. Hong Myung-bo (South Korea)
After being reappointed in July 2024, Hong was set to stay on until 2027. Unfortunately, South Korea ended up in third place in Group A, managing just one win and suffering two losses. He decided to step down on June 28.
6. Miroslav Koubek (Czechia)
Koubek took charge in December and guided Czechia through the playoffs to the World Cup. His side finished bottom of Group A with one point. He resigned by mutual agreement on June 29 after defeat to Mexico, citing criticism, travel demands and player fatigue.
7. Sabri Lamouchi (Tunisia)
Lamouchi took the reins as Tunisia's coach in January 2026, but his tenure was short-lived, spanning just five matches. Tunisia faced a tough time, losing all three of their group stage games. His dismissal came on June 15, just hours after a crushing 5-1 defeat to Sweden.
