El Nacional relegated to Ecuadorian Segunda Categoría

El Nacional has been officially relegated to the Segunda Categoría, the third tier of Ecuadorian football. The historic Quito-based club, known as ‘Puros Criollos’, sealed its fate following a 1-0 defeat against Deportivo Santo Domingo.

The club’s descent follows a period of significant instability, including administrative and financial crises, leadership changes, and previous administrative relegations. Despite a mathematical possibility to stay in Serie B, the 18-point gap between El Nacional (12 points) and Cumbayá (30 points) made survival impossible, especially given the unfavorable goal difference.

El Nacional will now compete in the Ascenso Nacional next season as it attempts to rebuild from its current institutional and sporting crisis.