Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has strongly defended his players following their surprise 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in the final Group E match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, dismissing criticism that the team lacked commitment.
Nagelsmann hits back at critics
Addressing reporters after the match in New Jersey, Nagelsmann said: "Please stop the nonsense, honestly! Didn't the boys want to go full throttle?" He added that it was unfair to claim any player did not give their best, stating, "We can't tell any player that he didn't step on the gas, that's far too striking for me."
Ecuador entered the match as clear underdogs after a 1-0 defeat to Ivory Coast and a goalless draw against Curacao, while Germany had already secured qualification. Despite this, Ecuador produced a strong performance to claim a memorable victory.
Germany's tactical issues
Nagelsmann admitted his team needed to show greater composure after taking an early lead. "We have to learn that after a good start and an early lead, we can play with more composure, instead of suddenly switching positions too much. We just need to be more patient and stay a bit more structured in our positions," he said.
The German coach also explained that squad rotation and player fatigue influenced the performance. "We deliberately made a lot of changes. You could see that we also had a few tired legs. You can't blame anyone for the fact that everything is a little slower and takes longer. We trust every player in the squad, and have to give the players the chance to show that," he added.
Ecuador celebrates historic win
Following Ecuador's victory, President Daniel Noboa thanked the players and coach Sebastian Beccacece for overcoming criticism and difficult moments. In a post on X, he announced a national holiday on Friday to celebrate the achievement. "Thanks to the players and the coach who, despite the criticism, the insults, and the tough times they went through, managed to bounce back and bring this immense joy to the entire country. Tomorrow, holiday! Long live Ecuador," he wrote.
