Ecuador entered their decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture knowing only a victory would keep their campaign alive — and they delivered, knocking out a heavily favored Germany side in a memorable upset.

With their tournament survival on the line, Ecuador found their finishing touch at the critical moment, producing a performance that will be remembered as one of the competition's defining results.

Germany, considered strong favorites heading into the match, could not find a way past a resolute Ecuador outfit that defended with discipline and struck when it mattered most.

The result marks a remarkable turnaround for Ecuador, who refused to let the pressure of a must-win scenario derail their ambitions, instead rising to the occasion against one of the tournament's most fancied sides.