Ecuador’s national team closed ranks on Sunday after rumors spread about alleged threats received before their Round of 16 clash with Mexico at the 2026 World Cup. Former head coach Sebastián Beccacece forcefully denied the claims and insisted the squad prepared for the game with total normality.

What did Beccacece say about the threats?

The Argentine tactician was blunt in his interview with Gaby Jurado on Radio Centro: “These are situations I categorically deny, at least based on my knowledge and ability to receive information. It’s completely false.” Beccacece added that “sometimes it’s harder to accept that the opponent outplayed you, that they played better”, and he criticized the conspiracy theories that followed the 0-2 loss to Mexico on July 1, 2026.

The coach stressed that the team stayed focused on football and that security guarantees must be a priority at tournaments of this scale. “We lost because Mexico outplayed us and because they converted their chances”, he said.

Why do these remarks matter now?

Beccacece’s words arrive at a pivotal moment for Ecuador, who face questions about their immediate future. The coach made clear the debate should center on performance, not outside speculation. “The debate is over. Stop inventing conspiracy theories and saying things that aren’t true”, he insisted.

Reports of threats had been pushed by Carlos Vera, a journalist from the same outlet, and echoed by figures like Eduardo Feinmann in Argentina. Beccacece not only denied the claims but demanded respect for the team’s technical process.

What’s next for Ecuador?

Ecuador return to action during the September and October FIFA windows, with potential opponents including Italy or Peru. Before the World Cup, talk even turned to a clash against a European powerhouse, though the schedule remains undecided.

Beccacece closed by reminding everyone the focus must stay on football: “What you have to do is play better. Do what you’re supposed to do. That’s it.” The Ecuadorian delegation, meanwhile, is already working to move past the bitter taste of elimination and prepare a stronger return.

The loss to Mexico left the team on a two-game winless streak (1W-2D-2L across the last five matches), but La Tri aim to bounce back in their next international fixtures.