FIFA World Cup: Ecuador fight back to shock Germany and reach knockout stage
Needing a win or a miracle to keep their hopes alive, the South Americans got off to the worst possible start as Germany, who had already qualified, struck in the second minute; Leroy Sane marked his 15th appearance in a major international tournament.
Ecuador had failed to score in this tournament despite 39 previous attempts, but finally broke their duck in the 40th when Nilson Angulo curled the ball beyond Manuel Neuer, sparking wild celebrations among the sea of yellow in the stands.
Gonzalo Plata headed home the winner with 13 minutes left to complete Ecuador’s spirited comeback, sending fans into jubilation at the sold-out New York/New Jersey stadium.
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Already guaranteed group winners, Germany moved top of Ivory Coast by six points on goal difference after the African side beat Curacao 2-0. Ecuador qualified as one of the eight best third-place teams.
Germany were chasing their third of three Group E matches and a 12th consecutive victory, but their defensive weaknesses were again exposed and they were defeated in all three group matches. Germany got off to a flying start and Sane finished left-footed from just inside the area in the second minute after Florian Wirtz found his teammate brilliantly after a quick throw-in.
Ecuador protested when Aleksandar Pavlovic raised his foot to catch Pedro Vite in the head during the build-up, but referee Tori Penso allowed the goal to stand.
Ecuador, who came under pressure after losing to Ivory Coast and drawing with Curacao, responded quickly. Angulo sent the ball into the net from the edge of the penalty area in the ninth minute, and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer reacted slowly.
The second half began with more controversy, with Penso awarding Germany a penalty after Felix Nmecha played in Kai Havertz, who appeared to be tripped by Joel Ordonez.
However, after VAR review, the referee overturned the decision for a Germany foul during the preparation.
Clear-cut chances were limited until Plata struck in the 78th minute; The substitute reacted quickest after Kevin Rodriguez’s corner kick at the near post, slotting the ball past Neuer and sending the stadium into chaos.
