Gonzalo Plata's 77th-minute strike sparked wild celebrations as Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 to secure a place in the World Cup last 32. The victory, achieved in front of 55,000 Ecuador fans, came after a flat start to the tournament and a must-win scenario following a defeat to Curaçao.
Early German goal and Ecuador's swift response
Germany took the lead in the second minute through Leroy Sané, who tucked home after a high boot challenge by Aleksandar Pavlovic on Pedro Vite. Despite lengthy protests, the goal stood. However, Ecuador responded within minutes as Nilson Angulo found the far corner from the edge of the box, capitalizing on errors by Florian Wirtz and Pavlovic.
Ecuador's tactical adjustment
Ecuador exploited Germany's weak spots on the wings, with Alan Franco and Angulo pushing relentlessly down the sides. Germany's Kai Havertz had a header saved, but Ecuador's defense, featuring Champions League finalists, held firm. Moisés Caicedo led a high-intensity midfield display, though counterattacks were blunted by poor decision-making.
Second half drama
Germany were awarded a penalty when Joel Ordóñez bundled over Havertz, but it was overturned after a video review showed Sané fouled Vite earlier. John Yeboah weaved through Germany's midfield but failed to create clear chances. Germany's top scorer Deniz Undav came on at the hour mark, but Ecuador maintained their high-intensity approach.
Plata's winning goal
Ecuador's best chance came from a mix-up between Jonathan Tah and Manuel Neuer, allowing Kevin Rodríguez to set up Plata, whose shot went just wide. Minutes later, Rodríguez flicked on a corner, and Plata prodded the ball past Neuer with the outside of his boot. Ecuador rarely looked like conceding after taking the lead, with Ángelo Preciado forcing a save from Neuer before the team dropped back to defend.
Celebrations and coach's relief
At full time, coach Sebastián Beccacece leapt into the stands to celebrate with his family. He had faced intense scrutiny after Ecuador failed to carry over a 19-match unbeaten run into the tournament. "I think there's something they don't like about me," he acknowledged before the game. The victory, secured against an uninspired Germany side, may restore faith in the coach and save his job, as fans chanted "Sí, se pudo" (Yes, we could).
