New Jersey, Jun 26 (V7N) – Four-time world champions Germany suffered a 2-1 defeat to Ecuador in their final group-stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite the setback, Germany progressed to the knockout stage as group winners.
Playing at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Germany made a dream start by taking the lead in just the second minute. Forward Leroy Sané curled a superb shot into the net from inside the penalty area, giving the Germans an early 1-0 advantage.
Ecuador responded quickly. In the ninth minute, Nilson Angulo brought his side level with a powerful finish inside the box, beating the German goalkeeper. The goal was Ecuador's first of the tournament and marked a memorable moment for the South American side.
Neither team managed to find another breakthrough before halftime, and the first half ended 1-1.
Germany dominated possession after the break and launched a series of attacks in search of a winner. However, Ecuador's defense stood firm and repeatedly denied the German forwards.
The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Gonzalo Plata headed home from a corner kick to give Ecuador a 2-1 lead.
Germany pressed for an equaliser in the closing stages but failed to break through, allowing Ecuador to secure a memorable victory.
Despite the defeat, Germany finished at the top of the group and advanced to the Round of 32, while Ecuador ended their World Cup campaign on a winning note with one of the tournament's biggest upsets.
END/SMA/AJ
