The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has announced, through a statement issued past midnight, that Spanish coach Félix Sánchez is no longer the head coach of the national team.

Sánchez did not confirm this in the press conference, stating it wasn't "the moment when digesting the defeat (against Argentina), especially in a penalty shoot-out, which is more painful."

An hour later, the FEF issued a statement announcing that "the termination of the contractual relationship with head coach Félix Sánchez has been agreed."

"We thank Félix and his coaching staff for their work, professionalism, and wish them success in their future projects," the statement concluded.

Félix Sánchez Bas was hired by the Ecuadorian Federation in March last year, with a contract until 2026, but faced strong opposition to his management from some Ecuadorian fans and media.

The Ecuadorian coach leaves the national team in fifth place in World Cup qualification, having reached the quarter-finals of the Copa America. They impressed in their last match, pushing World Champions Argentina to penalties, where Argentina narrowly prevailed.