Ecuador must beat Germany after goalless draw with Curacao in World Cup 2026

Ecuador and Curacao played to a 0‑0 draw at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, United States, during the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage. Ecuador dominated possession and created several clear chances, but Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room made 15 saves – a World Cup record – to keep his side unbeaten and secure the Caribbean nation’s first ever point at a finals tournament.

The result leaves Ecuador’s qualification hopes hanging: the South American side now must defeat Germany in the final group match and rely on other results to advance to the knockout round.

Room, born in the Netherlands and a former player for NEC Nijmegen, Vitesse and PSV Eindhoven, was hailed as the match’s hero for his extraordinary performance, while Ecuador’s coach Sebastián Beccacece expressed disappointment at the missed opportunities.