Ecuador are through to the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a stunning comeback victory over Germany, winning 2-1 in a Group E thriller on Thursday.

Gonzalo Plata proved the decisive figure, prodding the ball beyond Manuel Neuer in the 77th minute to seal a remarkable turnaround for the South American side.

Germany had taken the lead, but Ecuador refused to fold — rallying with determination to overturn the deficit and claim all three points, booking their place in the next round in the process.