In a stunning upset at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 on June 25, 2026, to advance to the knockout stage. The match, played at a sold-out stadium, saw Ecuador take an early lead through a goal from Enner Valencia in the 23rd minute. Germany equalized just before halftime with a strike from Kai Havertz, but Ecuador's Moisés Caicedo scored the winner in the 67th minute.
The victory marks Ecuador's first-ever win over Germany in a World Cup match. Ecuador finished second in Group B with 6 points, behind group winners Spain. Germany, a four-time World Cup champion, was eliminated after finishing third in the group with 4 points.
Ecuador's coach Gustavo Alfaro praised his team's discipline and tactical execution. "We knew Germany would be tough, but our players showed incredible heart and belief," Alfaro said in a post-match interview. The Ecuadorian squad will face the winner of Group A in the round of 16.
