Gonzalo Plata’s late strike completed a dramatic comeback as Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 to qualify for the World Cup round of 32 as a best third-placed team. The Flamengo forward’s winner, recorded in either the 77th or 78th minute by different match reports, sparked wild celebrations among 55,000 fans and sent La Tri into the knockout stages for the first time since 2006.
Comeback in New Jersey
Germany had already secured top spot in Group E, but Julian Nagelsmann fielded a strong XI that took an early lead when Leroy Sané finished from the edge of the box in the second minute, assisted by Aleksandar Pavlovic. The Bayern Munich midfielder had already courted controversy with a high challenge in the build-up, but protests were waved away.
Ecuador, needing victory to keep their tournament alive after failing to score in their opening two matches, responded within seven minutes. Sunderland winger Nilson Angulo capitalised on a defensive mix-up involving Pavlovic and Florian Wirtz to level the scores, firing past Manuel Neuer.
The South Americans, featuring Venezia’s John Yeboah from the start with Milan’s Pervis Estupiñán benched, grew into the contest and limited Germany’s threats after the first hydration break. They were aided by a VAR decision early in the second half that disallowed a penalty awarded to Germany for a foul on Kai Havertz, after review showed Sané had fouled Pedro Vite in the build-up.
The decisive moment arrived late when Kevin Rodríguez flicked on a corner to Plata, who steered the ball past Neuer with the outside of his boot. Ecuador head coach Sebastián Beccacece celebrated by leaping into the stands to join his family, easing pressure that had mounted following a 19-match unbeaten run prior to the tournament.
Implications for both sides
The defeat ended Germany’s 11-game winning streak, though Nagelsmann’s side progress as group winners. Maxi Beier made his World Cup debut as a second-half substitute, while former Milan defender Malick Thiaw remained on the bench as Antonio Rüdiger continued in central defence.
For Ecuador, the victory marks a historic qualification as one of the best third-placed teams, setting up a first knockout appearance in 20 years. La Tri’s defensive resilience, marshalled by Champions League finalists William Pacho and Piero Hincapié, proved crucial in seeing out seven minutes of added time against the four-time champions.