IBNS-CMEDIA: When it comes to the FIFA World Cup, no team can ever be written off, regardless of its form. Ecuador proved that once again with a stunning comeback victory over Germany in their final Group E clash.
In a match that appeared to be firmly under Germany’s control, the atmosphere at New York New Jersey Stadium turned jubilant for Ecuador as the South Americans rallied to secure a memorable 2-1 win.
While Germany suffered their first defeat of the tournament, they still finished atop Group E on goal difference.
Ecuador, meanwhile, advanced to the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams with four points.
Germany strike first
Germany got off to a dream start when Leroy Sané found the net in just the second minute, handing Julian Nagelsmann’s side an early advantage.
Ecuador responded almost immediately. Nilson Angulo ended his side’s goal drought by firing home the equaliser in the ninth minute, restoring parity with a clinical finish.
VAR denies Germany
The second half was a tense affair with both teams searching for the decisive goal. Germany believed they had earned a penalty after Kai Havertz went down inside the box, but a VAR review overturned the decision after Sané was adjudged to have committed a foul earlier in the build-up.
Plata seals famous win
With the contest seemingly heading for a draw, Ecuador struck the decisive blow in the 77th minute. Gonzalo Plata capitalised on a corner following a costly error by veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to score what proved to be the match-winning goal.
Germany threw everything forward in search of an equaliser during the closing stages, but Ecuador defended resolutely to complete one of the biggest upsets of the group stage.
Despite the defeat, Germany finished atop Group E, while Ecuador’s famous victory ensured their progress to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams with four points.
