Gonzalo Plata gave Ecuador a 2-1 lead over Germany in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E clash at the New York New Jersey Stadium, reacting quickest to turn Kevin Rodríguez's flick over Manuel Neuer into the net.

The goal came from sharp instincts in the penalty area — Rodríguez got a touch to redirect a ball over the onrushing Germany goalkeeper, and Plata was on hand to finish with composure and put his side in front.

Ecuador now hold a one-goal advantage over one of world football's most storied nations, in what is shaping up to be a memorable group-stage encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on United States soil.