Ecuador 2-1 Germany: Brilliant Comeback Sends Ecuador Into World Cup Last 32

Ecuador booked their place in the FIFA World Cup last 32 after producing a spirited comeback to defeat already-qualified Germany 2-1 in their final Group E match in New Jersey.

The South Americans recovered from an early setback to secure a memorable victory that earned them one of the tournament's best third-placed qualification spots and set up a potential knockout clash with England.

Germany, who had already secured top spot in the group before kick-off, made the perfect start when Leroy Sane fired them ahead after just two minutes.

The winger latched onto a clever pass from Florian Wirtz before clinically finishing past Ecuador goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez.

However, Ecuador immediately protested the goal, insisting Alexandar Pavlovic had committed a foul with a high boot on Pedro Vite in the build-up. Their appeals were waved away by the referee.

Rather than allowing the decision to affect them, Ecuador responded with energy and purpose.

Their persistence paid off in the ninth minute when Sunderland winger Nilson Angulo drove a low effort beyond Manuel Neuer to level the contest and ignite celebrations among the large Ecuadorian support inside the stadium.

The South Americans continued to dominate large spells of the game and eventually completed the turnaround in the 77th minute.

From a corner kick, Gonzalo Plata reacted quickest inside the penalty area to beat Neuer and bundle home the winning goal, sparking jubilant celebrations on and off the pitch.

The victory ended Ecuador's goal drought after they failed to score in their opening two group matches, a draw against Curaçao and a defeat to Ivory Coast.

Despite entering the tournament with attacking concerns, Ecuador finally displayed the quality expected from a squad featuring players such as Chelsea midfielder Moisés Caicedo.

Angulo was outstanding throughout the contest, constantly troubling the German defence and earning the Player of the Match award for his influential display.

Germany, meanwhile, looked below their usual standards, perhaps with qualification already guaranteed before the match. Although they pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, Ecuador's disciplined defending ensured they held on for a famous victory.

The result also deals a significant blow to Scotland's hopes of advancing as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams, with Ecuador's qualification reducing the number of available places.

Having finally found their attacking rhythm, Ecuador will head into the knockout stage full of confidence and believing they can challenge any opponent in the competition.