The chant of “I think there’s something they don’t like about me,” resonated from the 55,000 Ecuador fans as their team prepared for its final group match. Despite a lackluster start to their World Cup journey, there was palpable optimism that an upset against a formidable German team was within reach. Ecuador had no choice but to secure a win, having previously been held to a draw by Curaçao’s goalkeeper Eloy Room.
In a thrilling display, La Tri achieved a notable victory against a Germany side that struggled with defensive errors. Gonzalo Plata’s goal in the 77th minute ignited fervent celebrations, ensuring Ecuador’s advancement to the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.
While Germany clinched Group E’s top position, coach Julian Nagelsmann opted for only injury-related adjustments to his lineup. He emphasized that maintaining a consistent starting eleven was more critical than rotating players throughout the squad.
Just two minutes into the match, Aleksandar Pavlovic executed a risky high boot to knock the ball past Pedro Vite and find Florian Wirtz in the box. The Liverpool forward then set up Leroy Sané, who scored the opening goal from the edge of the area, despite prolonged protests regarding Pavlovic’s challenge.
Undeterred by the early setback, Ecuador’s supporters quickly shifted from encouragement to celebration as the team equalized. Sunderland’s Nilson Angulo, one of two new additions in coach Sebastián Beccacece’s squad, found the far corner of the net, capitalizing on a mistake by Wirtz, who lost possession to Vite, and Pavlovic, who failed to intercept.
With Alan Franco and Angulo exploiting their opponents’ vulnerabilities, Ecuador relentlessly attacked down the wings, compelling goalkeeper Manuel Neuer into several crucial saves. It wasn’t until 15 minutes later that Germany posed another serious threat, with Kai Havertz’s header going straight to Hernán Galíndez.
Following the hydration break, Germany attempted to regain control, but Galíndez remained relatively untroubled. Ecuador’s defense, bolstered by Champions League finalists, had become resolute, leaving the German side visibly frustrated.
As half-time approached, chants of “sí se puede” grew louder, echoing the team’s competitive spirit against the four-time champions. Under the leadership of a dynamic Moisés Caicedo, La Tri displayed a level of intensity rarely seen in their earlier matches. However, poor decision-making undermined their counterattacks.
The second half commenced with controversy as Germany was awarded a penalty after Joel Ordóñez fouled Havertz. Ecuador was spared when video review revealed that Sané had fouled Vite earlier in the play. John Yeboah emerged as a key player for Ecuador, weaving through the German midfield, although his creativity did not translate into significant chances.
Germany struggled to create opportunities, with Deniz Undav, their top scorer, only entering the match an hour in. He had expressed contentment with a substitute role but clearly felt he could contribute more from the start.
Returning from the second hydration break, Ecuador’s confidence surged as they successfully stifled Germany’s advances. Their best opportunity of the half emerged from a defensive mix-up between Jonathan Tah and Neuer, allowing Kevin Rodríguez to set up Plata, who narrowly missed the target.
Plata soon made amends. Rodríguez once again orchestrated the play, flicking on a corner he had earned after his previous shot was blocked. The ball found Plata, who deftly nudged it past Neuer with the outside of his boot.
After taking the lead, Ecuador maintained their momentum, and another chance fell to Ángelo Preciado, though Neuer was well-positioned to make the save as La Tri focused on protecting their hard-earned advantage.
Germany’s primary threat came from David Raum’s crosses, but a steadfast Ecuadorian side held firm in the closing moments. As Plata skillfully maneuvered the ball into the corner during stoppage time, celebrations erupted among the yellow-clad fans in the stadium.
At full-time, Beccacece’s exuberance was evident as he leapt into the stands to celebrate with family, having faced intense scrutiny from fans and the media for La Tri’s inability to continue their 19-match unbeaten streak into the tournament. “I think there’s something they don’t like about me,” the Argentinian remarked before the match.
Whether this victory over an uninspired German team will restore confidence in the head coach and secure his position remains uncertain. Nonetheless, Ecuador’s supporters had reason to celebrate on Thursday evening, echoing the sentiment: “Sí, se pudo: yes, we could.”
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- Ecuador
- Germany
- match reports
