PHILADELPHIA, PA June 13, 2026 — On Saturday, June 13, 2026, thousands of ecstatic Ecuadorian supporters took over the famous Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, turning the landmark into a vibrant celebration of La Tri ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group E opener against Ivory Coast.
The crowd, dressed predominantly in yellow jerseys and waving massive Ecuadorian flags, created an unforgettable “banderazo” — a traditional pre-match flag-waving rally. Videos circulating on social media show fans chanting, singing, and unfurling enormous tricolor banners (yellow, blue, and red) across the steps, with some gathering around the Rocky statue and nearby monuments for photos and cheers.
The energetic gathering highlighted the global passion for football blending with Philadelphia’s historic sites. Fans posed with the iconic Rocky Balboa statue, some playfully “running” the steps in homage to the famous film scene, while others waved flags near equestrian statues in the area.
Philadelphia is one of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup, with matches at Lincoln Financial Field (temporarily renamed Philadelphia Stadium). Ecuador’s game against Ivory Coast on Sunday, June 14, marks one of the first local fixtures of the tournament. Local Ecuadorian communities and visiting fans have embraced the city, with recommendations to explore landmarks like the Liberty Bell alongside the football festivities.
The FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill in Fairmount Park has also served as a central hub for supporters, offering live broadcasts, entertainment, and cultural celebrations throughout the tournament.
This pre-match spectacle underscores the excitement building in the City of Brotherly Love as it welcomes the world for soccer’s biggest stage. Ecuador, appearing in their fifth World Cup, will look to advance past the group stage for the first time in history, with passionate fans already making their presence felt.
As one supporter put it in viral footage: the World Cup truly brings people together.
¡Vamos Ecuador! 🇪🇨⚽
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