Ecuador exits World Cup 2026, players Hincapié, Valencia and Galíndez issue statements

Ecuador's national football team was eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after a 2‑1 defeat to Mexico in the round of 16, ending the country's campaign. Defender Piero Hincapié posted an emotional apology to fans, saying, "Hoy nos toca pedirles disculpas, especialmente a cada hombre y mujer que se levanta de mañana a buscar el pan de cada día..." and pledged to use the setback as motivation for future challenges.

The loss also marked the end of the international careers of striker Enner Valencia and goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez. Valencia left as Ecuador’s all‑time leading scorer, while Galíndez, a naturalised player, retired after a decade of service that included two World Cups and multiple Copa América tournaments. Both players announced their departures in the locker‑room following the match.

In addition, the federation was fined $20,000 after Hincapié received a direct red card in the same game, a penalty that underscores the disciplinary repercussions of the defeat.