Ecuador beats Germany 2-1 to secure World Cup 2026 knockout spot

Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 in a Group 5 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers held on 25‑26 June 2026 at New Jersey Stadium in New York. The winning goal came in the 77th minute from a corner, with Platas heading the ball past the German keeper.

The victory lifted Ecuador to four points, placing them third in the group and guaranteeing progression to the knockout phase, while Germany finished second. The match featured early pressure from Germany, a quick equaliser for Ecuador, and the decisive late header that secured the upset.

The result marks Ecuador’s second ever appearance in the World Cup finals and underscores the team’s resilience after earlier draws against Côte d’Ivoire and Costa Rica.