Ecuador produced a stunning comeback to beat Germany 2-1 and book their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The South Americans had failed to score in their opening two Group E matches, drawing with Curaçao and losing to Ivory Coast. But they saved their best performance for last as they came from behind to defeat the group winners in New Jersey.
Germany took the lead after just two minutes when Leroy Sane finished calmly after a clever pass from Florian Wirtz.
Ecuador were unhappy with the goal, believing Pedro Vite had been fouled by Aleksandar Pavlovic moments earlier. However, the referee allowed the goal to stand.
The decision appeared to inspire Ecuador, who equalised seven minutes later. Sunderland winger Nilson Angulo fired a low shot past veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to make it 1-1.
Ecuador continued to attack after the break and got the winning goal in the 77th minute. Gonzalo Plata reacted quickest from a corner to beat Neuer and spark wild celebrations among the Ecuador fans.
Angulo was one of Ecuador’s standout players and was named Man of the Match after causing Germany problems throughout the game.
Germany, who had already secured qualification before kick-off, looked below their best and could not find a way back into the match.
The victory gives Ecuador a place in the Round of 32, where they could face England if results in the other groups go their way.
The result also dealt a blow to Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams.
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