Ecuador breathed new life into their World Cup campaign with a historic 2-1 victory over Germany on Thursday, ending the German team's eleven-game winning streak and securing a place in the tournament's knockout stage.
The match, held in New Jersey, saw Ecuador overcome an early goal deficit to outplay Julian Nagelsmann's squad and earn a dramatic win. Players were seen in tears of joy and their coach celebrated exuberantly with the crowd after the final whistle.
Germany took an early lead within the first two minutes through Leroy Sané. However, Ecuador quickly responded. Ivan Angulo equalized in the ninth minute with a powerful shot from 20 yards. Later in the second half, Gonzalo Plata scored the decisive goal in the 77th minute, converting a chance from a corner.
Despite Germany's strong pre-match record, Ecuador demonstrated an aggressive and attacking approach, contrasting with more defensive strategies seen elsewhere in the tournament. The South American team outplayed Germany for significant portions of the match after conceding the initial goal.
VAR played a role in the game. Early in the second half, a penalty was initially awarded to Germany after a foul on Kai Havertz. However, following a VAR review, the decision was overturned to a free-kick for Ecuador due to a prior offense in the build-up.
Ecuador's victory ensures their progression to the Round of 32, where they could potentially face England. Germany, having already secured their place in the next round, fielded a strong side but could not maintain their winning run against a determined Ecuadorian team.
The match highlighted Ecuador's resilience and tactical approach, with coach Sebastian Beccacece urging his players forward, knowing a draw would not suffice for qualification. Germany's efforts to find a late equalizer in seven minutes of added time were ultimately unsuccessful.