Sebastian Beccacece bid a heartfelt farewell as Ecuador coach following their 2-0 defeat by Mexico in the World Cup round of \u200b32 on Tuesday, saying he would have liked to continue in the \u200crole but that he had failed to deliver on his promises.<\/p>\n
Despite entering the knockout stage with renewed momentum following a dramatic comeback victory over Germany, Ecuador could not overcome Mexico’s \u200bfast start and flawless defensive record.<\/p>\n
“Our contract ended with the World Cup. \u200bI don’t think we were able to achieve the feat \u2060we promised: to make this the best World Cup ever. Today it’s my \u200bturn to say goodbye,” Beccacece said after their defeat at a deafening Azteca Stadium.<\/p>\n
“That’s \u200bwhy I have to leave. I would have liked to continue because what I received from the players and the management warranted the possibility of continuing. But I understand how \u200bthis works and it hurts, but I think the decision was clear.”<\/p>\n
Beccacece acknowledged \u200bhis team were frustrated by an energised Mexican side, who dominated the opening 45 minutes.<\/p>\n
“We were outplayed \u200cin \u2060the first half,” he said.
\nEcuador improved after the break and enjoyed more possession as they searched for a way back into the contest, but Mexico’s defence held firm.<\/p>\n
“We fought back, but we couldn’t find the goal that would have given \u200bus a boost,” \u200bBeccacece added.<\/p>\n
Despite the \u2060pain of elimination, the Argentine manager chose to focus on the deep bond forged with his squad and the country \u200bduring their journey.<\/p>\n
Asked about the legacy he leaves behind, Beccacece \u200bdeflected the \u2060praise to his squad.<\/p>\n
“The legacy is from the players, because they have been the youngest team of Ecuador,” he said.<\/p>\n
“I have no complaints, only gratitude to the people \u2060and \u200bthe players,” he said. “I received so much gratitude \u200band affection from the bottom of my heart. The boys gave me two beautiful hours after the \u200bmatch and that’s what we’re left with.”<\/p>\n
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