Ecuador shocked Germany 2-1 in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match on Thursday 25 June, 2026 at the multi-purpose open-air MetLife Stadium in New York City, United States (US).
Manager Julian Nagelsmann’s side have already clinched their place in the round of 32, while, the outcome on Thursday night made way for The Tri to reach the knockouts leading to a dent on the hopes of Scotland reaching the round of 32.
The Ecuadorians came from the back to cart maximum points against the European side, with Galatasaray winger, Leroy Sane, placing Germany in front early, just in the 2nd minute of play, converting an assist from Liverpool attacking midfielder, Florian Wirtz.
But, the South Americans quickly found their leveller just seven (7) minutes after through Sunderland’s Nilson Angulo to end the first 45 minutes with a 1-1 draw; the goal ignited wild celebrations among fans of Ecuador inside the arena in New Jersey.
The Germans literally dominated the contest, however, it was Ecuador that emerged winner when they netted the second in the 77th minute through Gonzalo Plata with an assist from Union Saint-Gilloise forward, Kevin Rodriguez.
Ecuador have now progressed into the round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams, and might lock horns with England in the knockouts if the Three Lions emerge winners of Group L.
Germany and Ivory Coast finished Group E as first and second respectively with six (6) points each, while Ecuador and Curacao are third and fourth with four (4) and one (1) points respectively.
Results:
| FIFA World Cup 2026 (Group Phase) – Thursday 25 June, 2026 |
| Czechia 0-3 Mexico |
| South Africa 1-0 South Korea |
| Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast |
| Ecuador 2-1 Germany |
Photo: Gonzalo Plata celebrates after netting the winner for Ecuador in the final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match against Germany on Thursday in New York City, US
