Barcelona SC eliminated from Copa Ecuador over player eligibility error

Barcelona Sporting Club has been eliminated from the Copa Ecuador following a ruling by the Federación Ecuatoriana de Fútbol (FEF) regarding an ineligible player. The decision stemmed from the participation of Erick Mendoza during the round of 16 match against Liga de Portoviejo. Although Barcelona SC won the match 1-0 on the pitch, the FEF disciplinary commission accepted a protest and awarded a 3-0 victory to Liga de Portoviejo.

In response to the error, the club announced it has dismissed the personnel responsible within its player eligibility and control departments. Barcelona SC issued an apology to its fans, stating they are assuming the sporting consequences without seeking justifications. The institution also announced an immediate restructuring and strengthening of internal controls and regulatory review procedures to prevent future occurrences.

Separately, the club faces ongoing institutional challenges. Acting president Miguel Montalvo has indicated he will remain in his position until the end of the season to pursue institutional restructuring. There is also internal discussion regarding the potential conversion of the club into a Sociedad Anónima Deportiva (SAD), a corporate model where capital is divided into shares.