World Cup 2026: the matches that define Mexico’s rival

Beccacece: “Mexico surpassed us”

After Ecuador’s elimination in the round of 32 against Mexico, at the Azteca Stadium, Argentine coach Sebastián Beccacece avoided excuses. He publicly recognized the dominance of the tricolor team and confirmed that the match closed its cycle at the head of the Ecuadorian squad.

“I was not surprised, we knew what Mexico could do and we could not neutralize them. Mexico surpassed us and I have no complaints,” he declared at a press conference.

Beccacece highlighted the work of the team led by Javier Aguirre and the impact of the environment on the Coloso de Santa Úrsula. “They are a well-worked team. I wish we had played the whole game like the second half,” he added.

The coach thanked his players for their dedication during the tournament. He expressed sadness for the fans who traveled from Ecuador with the hope of seeing their team go far.

“It is a sad and painful night for the Ecuadorian people. My contract ended at the end of the World Cup. We have built a dignified and transparent legacy,” he concluded.

The defeat left a significant impact on Ecuadorian fans, who hoped for a better performance in the World Cup.

The former Bayern Munich goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, confirmed his definitive retirement from the German team after the elimination in the round of 32 of the World Cup. The defeat on penalties against Paraguay sealed his farewell.

“We did not live up to expectations. The premature elimination from the World Cup is extremely disappointing. We should have gone further in this edition. This epilogue is very painful,” declared the 40-year-old goalkeeper.

Neuer had left the Mannschaft after Euro 2024, but returned to play in his fifth World Cup. He was a key figure in the 2014 Brazil title. In his final message, he expressed gratitude towards the fans.

“I feel indescribable disappointment, but also immense gratitude to you for your support throughout all these years and this tournament,” he concluded.

Belgium and Senegal seek a place in the quarterfinals

The round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup begins to be defined. Belgium and Senegal will meet this Wednesday for a ticket to the next round.

The Belgian team arrives with its golden generation in decline. In the group stage they added one win and two draws, leaving more questions than certainties. Its collective functioning does not inspire full confidence, despite having renowned figures.

Senegal, for its part, advanced as one of the best third parties. They secured their ticket by beating Iraq in the last match of the first round. They are not favorites, but they aspire to a surprise, like those that have already been seen in the tournament.

Match schedule and broadcast

• Time: 2:00 p.m. (central Mexico time)
• Transmission: VIX with World Cup pass

Both teams show irregular performance, which adds uncertainty to the match. The winner will face the winner of the duel between the leader of Group A and the second in Group B.