Ecuador must beat Germany to stay alive in World Cup 2026

Ecuador enter the Group E finale with a single point after a 1‑0 loss to Ivory Coast and a 0‑0 draw with Curaçao. A win over already‑qualified Germany on 25 June at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey is the only path to the round of 16, either by direct qualification or by securing enough points to rank among the best third‑placed teams.

Coach Sebastián Beccacece, whose contract runs through the tournament, faces intense criticism for the team’s goal drought despite creating numerous chances; his expected xG of 1.63 is the highest in the squad but he has yet to score. Captain Enner Valencia emphasised that a victory, not personal stats, is the priority. Defensive performances have been solid, highlighted by goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez’s clean sheet record.

Germany arrive with six points, a dominant attack and a 11‑match winning streak. They may rotate players but remain a potent threat. The match will decide whether Ecuador’s World Cup campaign ends or continues.