Ecuador Stun Germany to Reach World Cup Knockout Stage

Ecuador have reached the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after stunning Germany. In the Group E match played at the New York New Jersey Stadium in the United States, Ecuador defeated title contenders Germany 2-1. Germany had taken an early lead in the second minute through Leroy Sane, but failed to protect the advantage.

Ecuador equalized in the ninth minute through Nilson Angulo. Gonzalo Plata then scored in the 77th minute to give Ecuador the lead, and no further goals were scored as Ecuador completed a memorable win. Despite the defeat, Germany finished as Group E winners and Ivory Coast advanced as runners-up. Ecuador also qualified for the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams with four points. Germany and Ivory Coast both finished with six points, while Curaçao were eliminated with one point.