Ecuador advances to World Cup knockout rounds, beats Germany 2-1 on Plata’s 77th-minute goal

Ecuador has advanced to the knockout stage of the World Cup after a 2-1 victory over Germany on Thursday in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Germany initially took the lead in the second minute with a goal from Leroy Sané. Ecuador quickly responded in the ninth minute with a goal from Nilson Angulo. The winning goal came in the 77th minute from Gonzalo Plata, securing Ecuador's progression. This marks Ecuador's second time reaching the knockout stage, with their previous appearance in 2006. Germany, having already secured first place in Group E, had their 11-game winning streak halted by this result.

Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 in a Group E World Cup match on Thursday, securing their place in the last 32. Germany finished top of the group, with Ivory Coast second. Ecuador's victory came from goals by Nilson Angulo and Gonzalo Plata, with Plata scoring the late winner. Germany had taken an early lead through Leroy Sane, a goal Ecuador felt should have been disallowed due to a foul. The match took place in New Jersey. Germany will now face another third-placed finisher in their next knockout match.