ENGLISH_SL: ecuador-stuns-germany-world-cup-knockout-stage
Historic Upset at MetLife Stadium
Ecuador delivered one of the most stunning results of the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far, defeating already-qualified Germany 2-1 at MetLife Stadium to secure a place in the round of 32. The South American side fought back from an early deficit to claim a historic victory and advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Germany needed just two minutes to open the scoring, with Leroy Sane finding the net. However, Ecuador refused to buckle. Nilson Angulo equalized before Gonzalo Plata struck the winner with 13 minutes remaining, sparking wild celebrations among the Ecuadorian players and fans. Despite the loss, Germany finished top of Group E.
Ivory Coast Make History
In Philadelphia, Ivory Coast secured second place in Group E with a commanding 2-0 victory over Curacao. Nicolas Pepe scored both goals, sending the West African nation into the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in its history. Curacao, making their debut appearance in the tournament, bowed out with a single point and a bottom-place finish in the group.
Perfect Netherlands Set Up Morocco Clash
The Netherlands completed a flawless Group F campaign, defeating Tunisia 3-1 in Kansas City to top the standings. An own goal by Ellyes Skhiri gave the Dutch an early lead, before Brian Brobbey and Jan Paul van Hecke added further goals. The victory sets up a last-32 meeting with Morocco. Tunisia exited the tournament without earning a point.
Japan Held by Sweden, Face Brazil Next
Japan settled for second place in Group F after a 1-1 draw against Sweden in Arlington,. Daizen Maeda put Japan ahead early in the second half, but Anthony Elanga’s long-range equalizer kept Sweden’s knockout hopes alive. The result means Japan will face Brazil in the round of 32, while Sweden remain in contention as a third-placed team.
Turkiye Spoil US Perfect Run
Already-qualified United States suffered their first defeat of the tournament, losing 3-2 tokiye in Los Angeles. Coach Mauricio Pochettino made nine changes to his lineup, and Turkiye capitalized in dramatic fashion when Kaan Ayhan scored a stoppage-time winner. Despite the consolation victory, Turkiye were eliminated, while the US finished top of Group D.
Australia Advance After Goalless Draw
Australia secured second place in Group D and a spot in the last 32 after a 0-0 draw with Paraguay in Santa Clara. The result left Paraguay third in the group and well positioned to qualify among the best third-placed teams as the knockout bracket takes shape.
