Ecuador beats Germany to reach World Cup knockout stage

Ecuador secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Germany in New Jersey, clinching their spot in the 2026 World Cup knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams. This historic win marks the South American nation's first-ever triumph against the German side.

The match began at a furious pace, with Germany's Leroy Sané opening the scoring just two minutes in. A quick play originating from a throw-in saw David Raum pass to Aleksandar Pavlovic, who then fed Florian Wirtz. Sané received the ball and finished clinically with his left foot. Ecuadorians protested a potential foul in the build-up, questioning if VAR should have intervened for a dangerous play.

Ecuador responded seven minutes later with their first goal of the tournament, a spectacular long-range effort from Nilson Angulo. After Germany lost possession twice during their build-up, Angulo received the ball, cut inside, and unleashed a powerful shot that evaded the defenders and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

In the second half, a penalty initially awarded to Germany was overturned after VAR review. The replay showed Sané had made only slight contact with Ecuador's Pedro Vite in midfield. The referee corrected her decision after consulting the monitor.

With less than 15 minutes remaining, Ecuador completed their comeback from a corner kick. Kevin Rodríguez flicked on the initial delivery, and Gonzalo Plata got a touch to guide the ball past Neuer into the net, sealing the 2-1 victory for La Tri.