Wednesday, June 28 2006 15:18 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Quito: Ecuador's squad are to receive a special award for their World Cup showing next Monday from President Alfredo Palacio after their battling run to the second phase, a government spokesman said on Tuesday.

"Coach Luis Fernando Suarez and his 23 players are to be given a state reception at the presidential palace, secretary of state for communication," said Enrique Proano.



"President Palacio will decorate the players and then host a lunch for them and their families," Proano said.

Ecuador beat Poland and Costa Rica before losing to Germany in the group stage from which they qualified for the first time on only their second appearance in the finals after 2002.

In the second round a David Beckham freekick for England undid their hopes of further progress as they went out 1-0.