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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Ecuador fall to Argentina in Copa quarterfinals</li><li>Sack manager Felix Sanchez</li><li>Team now on hunt for new boss</li></ul>

Ecuador sack manager Felix Sanchez after penalty kick shootout loss to Lionel Messi's Argentina in Copa America quarterfinals

World Cup Qualification CONMEBOL

Colombia

Ecuador

Argentina

Peru

Following their penalty shootout loss to Argentina Thursday night, a 1-1 draw with a 4-2 defeat from the spot, Ecuador announced that it is parting with Sanchez as manager of the national team.He was appointed on a four-year contract in March, 2023, and during his tenure, won 10 out of a possible 19 matches.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The sack was likely a surprise to the now ex-Ecuador boss, who spoke postgame about ambitions going forward into 2024."We managed to advance from the group stage to the knockouts. I have congratulated the players even if we weren't able to progress," he told reporters postgame Thursday. "I think they deserve the credit, that is my opinion, but I think that in the next edition of this tournament, we'll get here with a more experienced team. These are very young players. Maybe the results were unfair, but I know that we have to believe in this group of players."Just hours after the defeat, Ecuador announced his departure.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

"We thank Felix and his coaching staff for their work and professionalism, and wish him success in his future endeavors," the Ecuadorian Footballing Federation said.

WHAT ECUADOR SAID

Sitting fifth in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying, Ecuador are back in action this September as they continue their hunt for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.They'll be on the hunt for a new manager, as well.

WHAT NEXT FOR ECUADOR?

Ecuador sack manager Felix Sanchez after penalty kick shootout loss to Lionel Messi's Argentina in Copa America quarterfinals | Goal.com

Ecuador have sacked manager Felix Sanchez, despite the 48-year-old leading them into the Copa America quarterfinals.

Ecuador sack manager Felix Sanchez after penalty kick shootout loss to Lionel Messi&apos;s Argentina in Copa America quarterfinals