Ecuador and Ivory Coast booked their places in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 on Thursday, while Germany’s hopes of a deep run suffered a setback despite topping Group E.

Ecuador Stun Germany to Seal Knockout Spot

Ecuador produced one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, defeating Germany 2-1 at MetLife Stadium to secure qualification as one of the eight best third-placed teams.

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Gonzalo Plata scored the decisive goal 13 minutes from time after Nilson Angulo had cancelled out Leroy Sane’s controversial second-minute opener for Germany.