Ecuador advance to FIFA World Cup knockout stage with win over Germany

By  News On Air   Jun 26, 2026

In the FIFA World Cup, Ecuador advanced to the knockout stage after defeating Germany 2-1 in a Group E match at the New Jersey Stadium early this morning. Gonzalo Plata emerged as the match-winner as Ecuador staged a remarkable comeback to secure the victory.

Earlier, Côte d’Ivoire also booked their place in the knockout stage for the first time with a comfortable 2-0 victory over Curaçao in Philadelphia. Nicolas Pépé scored a brace as Côte d’Ivoire ended Curaçao’s campaign on a disappointing note.

Later, Japan and Sweden also advanced to the knockout stage after playing out a 1-1 draw in their Group F match at the Dallas Stadium this morning. Japan will now face five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 32.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands outclassed Tunisia 3-1 in Kansas City to top Group F and set up a Round of 32 clash with Morocco.