Ecuador upset Germany 2-1 to secure place in next round
Baku, June 26, AZERTAC
Ecuador upset Germany 2-1 on Thursday to secure their place in the next round with victory in their final Group E match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States.
Germany took the lead just two minutes after kickoff when Leroy Sané capitalized on a precise pass from Florian Wirtz to slot the ball into the bottom corner.
The early goal gave Germany confidence, but Ecuador responded quickly. Seven minutes later, Nilson Angulo fired a shot through a German defender's legs, catching goalkeeper Manuel Neuer off guard and scoring Ecuador's first goal of the tournament.
Although neither side found the net again before the break, the match remained highly competitive, with both teams creating chances in an intense battle for control.
Looking to regain the lead, Germany strengthened their attack by introducing Deniz Undav and Maximilian Beier, but neither was able to create a clear-cut opportunity.
Instead, Ecuador struck the decisive blow. Gonzalo Plata reacted quickest to divert Kevin Rodríguez's header into the roof of the net in the 77th minute, sealing a memorable victory over a Germany side that had impressed throughout the tournament.
With the result, Germany finished top of Group E to advance to the Round of 32, while Ecuador ended the group stage in third place and are expected to progress as one of the best third-placed teams.
As things stand, Germany are set to face Paraguay, while Ecuador will take on England in the Round of 32.
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