Ecuador came from behind to beat Germany 2-1 and qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage after a thrilling Group E clash in New Jersey.
The South Americans had failed to score in their first two matches, but they produced an impressive display when it mattered most to seal a famous victory over the already-qualified Germans.
Germany made the perfect start after just two minutes. Leroy Sane collected a pass from Florian Wirtz before firing past Ecuador goalkeeper Hernan Galindez.
Ecuador protested the goal, claiming Pedro Vite had been fouled by Aleksandar Pavlovic in the build-up. However, the referee waved play on.
The early setback did not affect Ecuador. Backed by their passionate supporters, they pushed forward and were rewarded in the ninth minute when Sunderland winger Nilson Angulo drilled a low shot beyond Manuel Neuer to level the score.
Ecuador continued to create the better chances after the break and completed the comeback in the 77th minute. Gonzalo Plata reacted quickest from a corner to beat Neuer and send the Ecuador fans into celebration.
Angulo was one of Ecuador’s best players throughout the match and deservedly claimed the Man of the Match award.
Germany, who had already secured a place in the Round of 32 before kick-off, struggled to match Ecuador’s energy and intensity and ended the group stage with their first defeat of the tournament.
The victory keeps Ecuador’s World Cup dream alive and sets up a possible knockout clash with England, depending on the final standings in the remaining groups.
The result also reduced Scotland’s hopes of progressing as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
