Ecuador stunned Germany with a brilliant 2-1 win to drag their World Cup 2026 campaign from disaster to glory as they qualified for the knockout stages for just the second time in their history.
Needing an unlikely win over the four-time world champions to reach the last 32, the South Americans suffered the worst possible start when already-qualified Germany struck in the second minute, with Leroy Sane brilliantly opening his account at major international tournaments with a curled finish.
Ecuador had failed to score in this tournament despite 39 previous attempts but finally broke their duck with their 40th shot when Nilson Angulo curled the ball beyond Manuel Neuer to spark wild celebrations among the sea of yellow in the stands.
Gonzalo Plata then bundled home the winner with 13 minutes remaining to complete a famous day in Ecuadorian football history, joining Germany and Ivory Coast – who beat Curacao 2-0 to secure their own passage – as Group E qualifiers.
Follow the conclusion to Group E with our live blog below:
Germany v Ecuador LIVE: Latest World Cup updates
- Ecuador stun Germany with brilliant 2-1 win to qualify for the World Cup knockouts
- Gonzalo Plata's goal sends them into the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams
- Ivory Coast beat Curacao 2-0 to qualify as runners-up, with Germany already confirmed as Group E winners
- 78' GOAL! Plata snatches huge goal after Neuer makes mess [ECU 2-1 GER]
- 64' GOAL! Pepe strikes again for Ivory Coast to double lead [CUR 0-2 IVC]
- 9' GOAL! Angulo equalises with thunderous strike from outside the box [ECU 1-1 GER]
- 7' GOAL! Pepe sweeps home from Diomande cutback [CUR 0-1 IVC]
- 2' GOAL! Sane fires home and VAR controversially doesn't check for high foot [ECU 0-1 GER]
Japan vs Sweden LIVE!
23:59 , Will Castle
Time to readjust those sets to Group F!
Japan and Sweden are about to clash in their own group finale where the top three could all reverse order after the last set of games.
The Netherlands lead Japan on goals scored with four points from the first available six while Sweden trail one point behind, with pointless Tunisia already out of the reckoning.
We’re bringing you live coverage of that match - click below to make sure you don’t miss any of the drama:
Japan v Sweden LIVE: Team news and latest updates in key World Cup Group F clash
Germany end 12-year World Cup wait
23:50 , Will Castle
Germany are into the World Cup knockouts for the first time since winning in 2014, which should feel like closing a chapter of underperformance for the national team.
However, we haven’t exactly seen a vintage German side so far - they conceded to tiny Curacao, had to snatch a late win against Ivory Coast and have now lost to Ecuador.
Group winners they may be, but it won’t be until they play against one of the big guns that we’ll really start to take them seriously.
Breathtaking Ecuador become World Cup dark horses again and expose Germany’s biggest problem
23:45 , Jack Rathborn in New York
Ecuador battled, scrapped and clawed their way to this famous World Cup 2026 comeback victory over Germany. A deserved 2-1 win to advance to the knockout stage for the second-ever time and ensure redemption for the maligned coach Sebastian Beccacece. They finish third in Group E, in another blow to Scotland’s hopes of becoming one of the eight third-place teams to advance, with their manager clambering into the stands like he had won Wimbledon in what promises to be a wild New York party.
This was a performance of great intensity, but after failing to score in this tournament after two games; an exquisite finish from Nilson Angulo and a gift from Manuel Neuer sealed the deal here. Once the safest pair of hands in football, the Bayern stopper has been shaky in the United States and his presence further exposes Germany’s unstable World Cup hopes. Julian Nagelsmann’s side wilted under the intense atmosphere, with a third of the estimated 900,000 Ecuadorians in the United States living here in New York, a yellow blaze from the stands willed their team back into the game and past the four-time champions.
Breathtaking Ecuador become World Cup dark horses to expose Germany’s biggest problem
'It's not relief, but belief'
23:40 , Will Castle
“Look at that emotion,” said Joe Hart on BBC One. “I don't think it is relief, it is belief.
“Ecuador believed in the way they played the game, they knew it was going to be tight but when the big moments came they flew at Germany.
“There is no getting away from it, Germany had nothing to play for and you could feel it. You could feel they didn't want to get involved. An incredible performance from Ecuador, they should be so proud.”
Redemption for Beccacece
23:35 , Will Castle
Ecuador boss Sebastian Beccacece was having a very tough World Cup before today’s match. No goals had been scored and their only point came against Curacao, the tiny nation who they were expected to trounce.
After that match, Beccacece’s family were seen arguing with fans in the stands, and the manager was set to leave if Ecuador were eliminated.
It doesn’t look like he’ll be going anywhere now.
The greatest moment in Ecuador's football history?
23:30 , Will Castle
"It's a touch of Ecuador gold" ✨🇪🇨
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 25, 2026
Gonzalo Plata gives Ecuador the lead and the stadium goes wild! pic.twitter.com/1ngc5oibRe
Ecuador go through as one of best third-placed teams
23:20 , Will Castle
Ecuador are through to the knockouts, shooting to the top of the third-place rankings with the elusive tally of four points.
Scotland missed out on that last night - and today’s result means they drop to eighth in the rankings. They nows need everything to go their way to progress.
How Group E finishes
23:09 , Will Castle
Ecuador’s winner against Germany has sealed their place in the World Cup knockouts, against all odds.
They join group winners Germany in the round of 32, alongside Ivory Coast who beat Curacao to seal their place.
Incredible scenes as Ecuador progress into World Cup knockouts
23:05 , Will Castle
FULL-TIME! Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast
22:59 , Alex Pattle
Curacao have done themselves proud in a very tough group, I’d argue, but they bow out of the World Cup at the bottom of the group regardless.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast progress in second place.
FULL-TIME! Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:58 , Will Castle
ECUADOR HAVE BEATEN GERMANY AND ARE HEADING TO THE WORLD CUP KNOCKOUTS!
Gonzalo Plata’s winner settled it in New Jersey, with Ecuador showing all the fight they had to come back from early VAR controversy to beat the four-time world champions.
An incredible effort.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:58 , Will Castle
90+6 mins: Plata is pulled to the ground by Gross and Ecuador have a free-kick on the edge of Germany’s box.
They have been outstanding today, and Germany’s hopes of finding a late equaliser are diminishing by the second.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:57 , Will Castle
90+5 mins: Long throw from Beier is completely miscued and is heading out for a goal kick, but Estupinan gives him another chance from the touchline.
The next effort does go into the centre of the box but it’s headed out before Gross blazes an effort on the turn high over the bar.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:54 , Will Castle
90+3 mins: CLOSE! Undav has the net bulging again - but it’s the wrong side of the post!
A wonderful touch by Gross to set him up, but Undav can’t finish.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:53 , Will Castle
90+2 mins: Ecuador have a chance to break but instead of going right, where Preciado can take it to the corner, he dinks one centrally for Rodriguez who is miles offside.
Here come Germany again.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:52 , Will Castle
90+1 mins: SEVEN long, long minutes added on for Ecuador to survive.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:51 , Will Castle
90 mins: Real nervy moments for Ecuador who keep slicing their clearances and playing head tennis with the Germans as they struggle to release any of the pressure on their own box.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:50 , Will Castle
89 mins: Naughty from Plata. He flys in with a rash challenge and is rightly booked.
Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast
22:50 , Alex Pattle
88 mins: All of a sudden, Curacao look panicked and Ivory Coast are pressing for a third. Some nervy defending from the minnows...
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:49 , Will Castle
88 mins: Estupinan makes up for giving a foul away in a dangerous position by meeting Raum’s delivery - he sends it out for a corner, which Ecuador then clear.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:48 , Will Castle
86 mins: A reminder that, for Scotland, this result will be a real blow in their hope to finish as one of the eight-best third-placed teams and reach the knockouts.
Ecuador’s four points will see them leap above their three.
Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast
22:46 , Alex Pattle
84 mins: It’s been end to end between Curacao and Ivory Coast in the last few minutes, but neither side has come close.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:46 , Will Castle
84 mins: Double change for Ecuador as they try and see the biggest win in their history out.
Jordy Caicedo replaces Angulo while Torres comes on in place of Yeboah.
Germany 1-2 Ecuador
22:43 , Will Castle
80 mins: Ecuador come again and try and get in behind, but this time Neuer comes out and claims successfully.
But they don’t need to be so daring now. This Ecuador has been hailed for its defensive quality - now it’s needed.
GOAL! Germany 1-2 Ecuador (Plata, 78')
22:39 , Will Castle
NEW JERSEY ERUPTS!
The corner’s whipped in and it’s flicked on brilliantly by Kevin Rodriguez for Gonzalo Plata, who sticks out a boot and sends it into the roof net!
Manuel Neuer makes a hash of trying to collect it - he’s been a world-class goalkeeper over the years, but this has felt one World Cup too many for the veteran.
But Ecuador won’t care about Germany’s shortfalls. They’re in front and are verging on the knockouts.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:39 , Will Castle
77 mins: CHANCE! Huge opportunities at both ends - this one is heating up now!
A wonderful body touch from Undav sends Sane through but he scuffs his shot and it’s simple for the keeper.
Then up the other end, Rodriguez receives it in the box but it’s blocked at point blank range.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:37 , Will Castle
75 mins: Another exceptional ball from Raum is whipped in for the on-rushing Beier, but Ecuador’s defender does enough to put him off as the ball runs straight across the box.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:35 , Will Castle
73 mins: CHANCE! A HUGE mix-up between Tah and Neuer at the back, but Ecuador can’t capitalise!
Tah freezes as Neuer comes out, allowing Rodriguez to nick a touch between them and chase it to the byline. It’s cut back before fired in towards Plata who can’t divert it goalwards, his effort flying painfully wide of the top right corner.
That was their best opportunity of the game so far.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:33 , Will Castle
71 mins: We get back underway with another switch for Ecuador. Pervis Estupinan replaces Piero Hincapie.
Ecuador have 20 minutes to go hell for leather to get a goal, otherwise they’re going home.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:30 , Will Castle
68 mins: Time for a World Cup hydration break. Will it be Ecuador’s last?
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:30 , Will Castle
65 mins: Ecuador’s chances of finishing second seem to have all but gone with that Ivory Coast goal, but their assignment stays the same: win and they’ll surely go through as one of the eight-best third-placed teams.
Ecuador have now brought off Enner Valencia in search of a winner to a mixed reception from their own fans, replacing him with Kevin Rodriguez. He’s a legend of their national team but hasn’t had a great outing today.
Alan Franco is also off for Angelo Preciado for the South Americans.
Meanwhile for Germany, Felix Nmecha makes way for Maximilian Beier.
GOAL! Curacao 0-2 Ivory Coast (Pepe, 64')
22:27 , Alex Pattle
64 mins: It’s two for Pepe, and it’s two for the Ivory Coast!
They were playing relatively conservatively, which was their prerogative, but now they come forward and score through a fantastic move.
There’s an incisive pass from Sangare to Pepe, who is gliding into the box, and he opens up his body to bend a left-footed shot into the far top corner.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:26 , Will Castle
64 mins: Now here come Germany!
Wirtz drives forward and has a shot from outside the box - it’s blocked by Pacho but the chance stays alive, with it looped back awkwardly back towards Undav under the crossbar.
Galindez has to back-peddle to make the catch and he just about does that, denying the free-scoring Stuttgart striker a fourth goal at these finals.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:24 , Will Castle
62 mins: SAVE! Yeboah sets it back for Valencia to have a pop at goal and he forces Neuer into a stop, parrying it to the right.
It’s a shot at goal for Ecuador. They need more of them.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:21 , Will Castle
60 mins: Kai Havertz and Joshua Kimmich make way as Germany’s “finisher” Deniz Undav and Malick Thiaw enter the fray.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:20 , Will Castle
58 mins: Long ball is sent towards Havertz but Pacho shields the Arsenal man as it bounces through to Galindez.
The tempo’s slowed down over the past few minutes. Maybe it’s why Nagelsmann has told Undav, whose three goals this tournament wasn’t enough to start today, to get stripped.
Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
22:18 , Alex Pattle
56 mins: Now it’s a good effort from Curacao!
Left-back Floranus lets go from the edge of the Ivory Coast box; his shot looks to be always rising, but it only just clears the bar in the end!
They’re suddenly knocking, are Curacao.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:16 , Will Castle
54 mins: Ecuador burst forward at pace but Valencia decides to do the complete opposite and put the brakes on. Ecuador fans are livid at their veteran striker.
They do eventually get to the Germany box and cause a bit of panic with the cutback, but can only win a corner.
It’s whipped to the back post and headed into the side netting.
Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
22:14 , Alex Pattle
53 mins: It’s largely risk-free football from Ivory Coast at the moment, holding possession with relative ease.
That said, Kessie has a decent go now, with his deflected shot going narrowly wide! Ivory Coast corner to follow...
But it’s dealt with.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:12 , Will Castle
50 mins: Franco goes into the book for Ecuador after kicking the ball onto the pitch so Germany couldn’t take a quick throw.
NO PENALTY! Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:09 , Will Castle
48 mins: It’s overturned, and joy for the Ecuador fans!
Vite is tripped up by Sane in the build-up and the spot-kick is chalked off. Instead, we have an Ecuador free-kick on halfway.
PENALTY! Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:08 , Will Castle
46 mins: Another LIGHTNING-QUICK start by Germany!
It’s a clumsy challenge by Ordonez on Havertz, who comes in from behind and brings down the Arsenal forward!
Ecuador are once again fuming - this time with the decision not to give a foul against them in the build-up.
And... a VAR check is being advised.
BACK UNDERWAY! Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
22:08 , Alex Pattle
And the action resumes in Philadelphia.
One change: Ivory Coast take off Amad Diallo and bring on Christ Inao Oulai.
BACK UNDERWAY! Germany 1-1 Ecuador
22:06 , Will Castle
We are off again in East Rutherford!
One Germany change - the booked Pavlovic is replaced by Stiller, a like-for-like swap.
How things stand in Group E
22:00 , Will Castle
As things stand, only Ivory Coast will be joining group winners Germany into the World Cup knockouts.
Ecuador are threatening in New Jersey and are deservedly level after that contentious early Leroy Sane opener, but a draw will simply not be enough for them to qualify as one of the eight-best third-placed teams. They need another goal, at least.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast are doing the business against Curacao, putting them comfortably second in the group on six points. But the tiny Caribbean island are only down by one and will still be dreaming of a fairytale ending to their World Cup campaign. They need to turn that game on its head to qualify.
This could all flip at the drop of a hat.
Ecuador bite back against Germany in must-win Group E finale
21:53 , Will Castle
HALF-TIME! Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
21:53 , Alex Pattle
So, Nicolas Pepe’s early goal is the difference, with Ivory Coast currently on track for a last-32 clash with France or Norway.
Curacao, meanwhile, are trending to finish bottom of the group and exit this tournament.
HALF-TIME! Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:50 , Will Castle
And that’s all she wrote for the first half!
After a frantic start that saw Germany take the lead controversially before Ecuador equalised superbly, it’s all square at the break.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:49 , Will Castle
45+3 mins: Really clever ball from Caicedo as he dinks it towards Valencia, but Tah leans on him and is able to clear.
It’s not long until Ecuador come again - Angulo whips in a dangerous low ball aiming for Valencia again, but again it’s Tah who gets in the way.
The Bayern defender is doing all the Germany defending.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:46 , Will Castle
45+1 mins: Four minutes added on in first-half stoppages, as confirmed by the overzealous stadium PA in East Rutherford.
Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
21:45 , Alex Pattle
44 mins: Curacao’s best chance so far sees Leandro Bacuna dart through the Ivory Coast’s box before rifling a low shot justttt wide of the near post.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:44 , Will Castle
44 mins: Two yellow cards in quick succession!
Ecuador’s Hincapie is the first to enter the book for a tug on the shirt, before Germany’s Pavlovic joins him after bundling his man over on the break.
'Ecuador intensity has been admirable'
21:43 , Jack Rathborn at the New York-New Jersey Stadium
The latest from Jack Rathborn, who’s in place at the New York-New Jersey Stadium:
The intensity of this Ecuador has been admirable, with Sebastian Beccacece experiencing a rather hostile reception after their nightmare start. But Ecuador are playing for him and the intensity is creating panic with each breakdown.
Nilson Angulo is lively and Enner Valencia ever willing to storm into space. This game entirely suits Ecuador, who know a win all but takes them through to a second-ever knockout stage appearance.
Moises Caicedo's role is fascinating, too, orchestrating the play between Willian Pacho and Joel Ordonez, while also breaking free to pinch the ball at times. Just then after 33 minutes, Pavlovic felt he was safe, but Caicedo robbed him of possession to spark another furious counter-attack.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:42 , Will Castle
41 mins: Clever run from Musiala down the left and he gets the pass, giving Germany an opening.
Havertz darts into the box looking to get into a position for a tap-in but Caicedo tracks him and intercepts when it’s released by Musiala.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:38 , Will Castle
38 mins: Alarm bells sound for Ecuador as Musiala begins to do his thing, sending Vite to the ground with the cutback and setting himself to shoot.
But who else comes in to make the tackle than Franco, who has been everywhere so far this game.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:36 , Will Castle
35 mins: Another half-chance for Germany.
Wirtz slips in Musiala after Franco loses out on a header, but just as the Bayern man goes to let fly he’s thwarted by the challenge of Ordonez.
A tackle that’s cheered like a goal by the Ecuador fans.
Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
21:36 , Alex Pattle
34 mins: A Mexican wave!
You know what that means: the pace of the game has dropped off – largely because Ivory Coast have settled into possession, with Curacao looking less and less likely to counter at the moment.
A lot of the Ivory Coast’s probing has come via their young star Diomande on the left wing.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:30 , Will Castle
29 mins: The pundits in BBC’s studio are unanimous in thinking Germany’s opener should have been ruled out.
It’s yet another contentious on-field decision that’s been stuck with by VAR. A bit baffling.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:28 , Will Castle
27 mins: Time for our mandated hydration break. We’re a bit over-time - sound the advertising alarm, Gianni!
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:26 , Will Castle
26 mins: Super ball from Raum aiming for the head of Havertz, but the Liverpool man can’t get power on the header and it’s simple for Galindez.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:25 , Will Castle
23 mins: Nervy moments for Germany - Ecuador are playing with real fluidity.
A lot of their joy is coming down the right with Franco peppering Neuer’s box with crosses, one that flies dangerously close to Valencia’s head, but nothing to test the stopper just yet.
Hincapie is then set into the box but it’s brilliant tracking back from Sane to put a foot in. The Ecuador fans want a penalty but it’s telling the players don’t appeal.
Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast
21:22 , Alex Pattle
21 mins: Although they’re already trailing, Curacao have been in this game.
The match is ebbing and flowing, with Ivory Coast looking fairly dangerous and Curacao then breaking with intent.
The crowd is well up for this, too.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:21 , Will Castle
19 mins: Hincapie fumes at the referee after Kimmich goes down in his own box, the Arsenal man having the ball in a dangerous position on the byline.
You can understand why - replays show it’s Kimmich who’s got a handful of the Ecuadorian’s shirt before tumbling over.
Referee Tori Penso isn’t a popular figure within the Ecuador faithful at the moment.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:19 , Will Castle
17 mins: This game has slightly calmed down after such a frantic start.
Both teams are trying to build out from the back rather than try and catch the other one out on the break.
Germany 1-1 Ecuador
21:16 , Will Castle
14 mins: Caught your breath yet?
Germany are looking to respond quickly as they try and set Wirtz in on goal with a ball across. Ecuador goalkeeper Galindez comes out but Franco takes it out of his hands, successfully might we add.
They then come again through Musiala who fires an effort wide of the far post.
'Lifeline for Ecuador'
21:12 , Jack Rathborn at the New York-New Jersey Stadium
The latest from Jack Rathborn, who’s in place at the New York-New Jersey Stadium.
That is breathtaking from Angulo, he ruthlessly steps into space to collect the loose ball and then arrows a strike through the legs of Pavlovic and low past Neuer.
A lifeline and this New Jersey crowd has erupted, it's a sea of yellow and the noise is piercing the ears of those in attendance. A home game and the South Americans are back level.
GOAL! Germany 1-1 Ecuador (Angulo, 9')
21:10 , Will Castle
What a strike, and what a start to the Group E finales!
Nilson Angulo lets fly from distance and drills into the bottom corner, flying through the legs of Pavlovic which might explain why Neuer was so slow to react.
Ecuador’s World Cup is anything but over!
GOAL! Curacao 0-1 Ivory Coast (Pepe, 7')
21:09 , Alex Pattle
Ivory Coast take the lead!
They’d started well, putting Curacao under real pressure, and it pays off.
Diomande with some great footwork in the box initially, out to the left, but he loses the ball... only for a poor defensive mix-up to allow him possession again.
He cuts it back for Pepe, who sweeps it home from close range!
Germany 1-0 Ecuador
21:07 , Will Castle
5 mins: Question marks might surround the giving of the goal, but Germany have started by far the better team.
Wirtz did well to break in behind in the opening moments which led to the throw that Germany scored from.
GOAL STANDS! Germany 1-0 Ecuador
21:05 , Will Castle
Well then, no VAR intervention after all. Ecuador are fuming, and understandably so if we’re honest.
GOAL! Germany 1-0 Ecuador (Sane, 2')
21:02 , Will Castle
A NIGHTMARE start for Ecuador!
Florian Wirtz tees up Leroy Sane who slots home to break the deadlock inside two minutes - but there might be early VAR intervention.
Pavlovic’s boot is high and he catches his man off the throw...
KICK-OFF! Curacao 0-0 Ivory Coast
21:02 , Alex Pattle
And we’re also underway in Philadelphia.
KICK-OFF! Germany 0-0 Ecuador
21:01 , Will Castle
And we’re off in New Jersey(-NewYork)!
Kick-off next
21:00 , Will Castle
Big stakes across the group, for all those other than Germany.
Ecuador, whose impressive defensive record had them pegged as the World Cup dark horses, need a win to stay alive.
Here come the teams
20:54 , Will Castle
We’re in on kick-off in New Jersey... and the players are making their way out to the centre circle.
Time for the national anthems!
Group E set for tense climax
20:50 , Will Castle
Right folks, we’re just 10 minutes away from kick-off as both Germany vs Ecuador and Curacao vs Ivory Coast get underway simultaneously.
While Germany are confirmed as Group E leaders, there are still a lot of moving parts and all could change by the final whistle.
Here is what the Group E table currently looks like:
Final Group E preparations
20:45 , Will Castle
Dick Advocaat full of confidence as Curacao eye more World Cup history
20:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
World Cup debutants Curacao enter their final Group E match against Ivory Coast with heightened confidence after a 0-0 draw with Ecuador, manager Dick Advocaat has suggested.
"I think that the draw was the right outcome, although they had more opportunities," said `the 78-year-old Dutch coach. "But it does mean that we can make life difficult for any opponent." Advocaat's side remain in the hunt to progress, though they will probably need a shock victory on Thursday.
Eloy Room’s 15 saves against Ecuador were the most ever in a World Cup match that did not feature extra time, but there were moments of real threat from Curacao on the counterattack last Saturday.
"I said before that this probably is going to be the first match where we are the favourites," Advocaat joked. "No, it's going to be a tough match. We are playing three great teams, but it's also wonderful for Curacao to play these kinds of opponents, these kinds of countries.
"And we showed against Ecuador what we're able to do. That we don't only defend, but we also found the right moments to attack, and we'll do the same tomorrow."
Why are World Cup games kicking off at the same time?
20:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
In this age of television revenue maximisation, there might be a push to create distinct windows for every World Cup fixture. The legacy of the “Disgrace of Gijon” hangs over the tournament, though, with Fifa understandably keen to avoid a repeat or handing an advantage to any nation playing with full knowledge of what they need to do in the group.
Why are World Cup games kicking off at the same time?
World Cup 2026 power rankings
20:25 , Will Castle
Group E has delivered some of the biggest shocks of this tournament so far: from Curacao’s point against Ecuador to Germany’s late winner over Ivory Coast.
There will surely be more in store tonight, but how does each team stack up compared to the rest after two games? Read The Independent’s World Cup 2026 power rankings below:
World Cup 2026 power rankings: Argentina and France lead charge after round two
Who is Eloy Room? How Curacao goalkeeper made history with 15-save performance
20:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Eloy Room has become an unexpected star of this World Cup. Jamie Braidwood profiles a goalkeeper making the most of his opportunity.
Who is Eloy Room? How Curacao goalkeeper made history with 15-save performance
Jurgen Klopp ends interview after being asked about German icon’s controversial ‘African football’ remarks
20:15 , Will Castle
Former Liverpool manager and World Cup pundit Jürgen Klopp abruptly ended an interview in New York after being questioned about controversial remarks by former Germany player Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Schweinsteiger, commenting for German broadcaster ARD before Germany played Ivory Coast last weekend, had described the African team’s style as "a bit African football, a bit unorthodox, a bit wild, a bit perhaps also not so conditioned by tactics. We have to be prepared for it to be unpredictable."
Klopp, who is working for broadcaster Magenta, appeared visibly taken aback when asked about Schweinsteiger’s comments by Deutsche Welle in a huddle with journalists on Wednesday.
He expressed his reluctance to delve into the sensitive topic, stating: "Now you want to carry on the subject. No, no, I have no chance. I have no chance to answer this question.
“Everybody likes it so you bring me in this situation. It’s not my job that everybody likes it, but this is a serious subject, and I don’t even know what is appropriate to say. For African people it’s one thing, for other people it’s another thing, and I’m not here."
Klopp ends interview after being asked about German icon’s ‘African football’ remarks
...and in Philadelphia
20:10 , Will Castle
Player arrivals in East Rutherford...
20:05 , Will Castle
Ecuador boss hopes to win over fans in final group game
20:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Ecuador boss Sebastian Beccacece has faced heavy criticism from back home, with the Argentine manager not particular popular among fans of the nation he’s steering at this tournament. He’s hoping to win them over with an upset win today.
"I am very sorry I didn't make it to the heart of the Ecuadorean fan," Beccacece said, via an interpreter. "For the fans who don't know me, I think I didn't quite click with them. "There is something they don't like with me and that is fine... I need to accept it when things are felt and perceived.
“We are facing a world football powerhouse, but of course maybe we can make the impossible possible.”
'A strong line-up for Germany'
19:56 , Chris Wilson at the New York New Jersey Stadium
The latest from Chris Wilson, who’s in place at the New York New Jersey Stadium:
A strong line-up from Germany despite having already secured top spot in the group. That’s potentially good news for Scotland, who need the first in a number of favours this evening.
Ecuador would likely qualify if they can manage a win here, though it’s probably a big ask for a side who failed to find the net against Curacao.
Getting in the mood
19:56 , Will Castle
Ecuador confirmed line-up
19:50 , Will Castle
Joel Ordonez returns to the line-up after missing the draw to Curacao, with Pervis Estupinan dropped for Nilson Angulo on the left.
Enner Valencia, at 36, continues to lead the line for a team brimming with young defensive talent.
Ecuador XI: Galindez; Franco, Ordonez, Pacho, Hincapie; Yeboah, Vite, Caicedo, Angulo; Plata, Valencia.
Germany confirmed line-up
19:45 , Will Castle
David Raum and Antonio Rudiger come in for Germany who opt not to rest the bulk of their players despite already being confirmed as group winners.
Both of those replacements come as a result of injuries. Raum replaces Nathaniel Brown who complained of muscle tightness, while Rudiger is in for Nico Schlotterbeck have the Dortmund man was ruled out for the tournament.
Germany XI: Neuer; Kimmich, Rudiger, Tah, Raum; Nmecha, Pavlovic; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz.
Für Deutschland! 🇩🇪 Das ist unsere Startelf gegen Ecuador 👇️#fifaworldcup #dfbteam 📸 DFB pic.twitter.com/SFAygc9jTw
— DFB-Team (@DFB_Team) June 25, 2026
Curacao vs Ivory Coast confirmed line-ups
19:43 , Alex Pattle
Curacao XI: Room; Brenet, Gaari, Obispo, Floranus, Fonville; Chong, Livano Comenencia, L Bacuna, J Bacuna; Locadia.
Ivory Coast XI: Y Fofana; Doue, O Diomande, Kossonou, Operi; Amad, Kessie, Sangare, Y Diomande; Pepe, Bonny.
Team news on the way...
19:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Right, it appears Antonio Rudiger will keep his place, but who will Julian Nagelsmann name to join him? It could be a different-looking German team. We’ll have all of the XIs for you reasonably shortly...
Antonio Rudiger ready to step up after Nico Schlotterbeck injury blow
19:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Germany's Antonio Rudidger will be ready for more playing time as coach Julian Nagelsmann plans a few tweaks to the starting lineup today.
Germany have already qualified, but will face a test of their defence in New Jersey with Ecuador desperate to salvage their winless campaign and centre back Nico Schlotterbeck out of the tournament with an ankle injury.
Real Madrid's Rudiger could do the trick, after stepping in for the injured Schlotterbeck during their 2-1 win over Ivory Coast last week and with his knee no longer in pain after undergoing surgery a year ago.
"His knee doesn't bother him right now, he feels very good and I think he did a great job when he came into the match last time and he will do the same today," said Nagelsmann. "We hope that Antonio is being rewarded with more match time."
This baffling Fifa decision could ruin the World Cup’s famous group stage drama
19:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle
It is going to be a hectic few days as groups are decided – but should the conclusion to this first phase have been even better? Miguel Delaney explains how a Fifa change has lessened the tension somewhat.
This baffling Fifa decision could ruin the World Cup’s famous group stage drama
HAVE YOUR SAY! Who will win the World Cup?
19:05 , Harry Latham-Coyle
World Cup 2026 power rankings: Argentina and France lead charge as England stall in round two
19:00 , Will Castle
The clutch of contenders is getting ever more intriguing. Where do Germany land in our power rankings after the second round?
World Cup 2026 power rankings: Argentina and France lead charge after round two
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
18:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle
And here are the nine fixtures that must go Scotland’s way if they are to reach the last 32.
The nine World Cup results Scotland need to qualify for knockout stages
Why Scotland will be watching on eagerly
18:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Only the top eight third-placed finishers will progress from the group stage, leaving Scotland facing an anxious wait after defeat to Brazil yesterday.
Here is how the ladder looks:
World Cup 2026 knockout fixtures, results and group tables
18:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle
Struggling to keep track of all the results, fixtures and permutations? Our one-stop-shop has you covered:
World Cup 2026 knockout fixtures, results and group tables
What do Curacao need to qualify?
18:20 , Jamie Braidwood
A victory against Ivory Coast would be enough for Curacao to qualify, regardless of results elsewhere and despite their goal difference (which took a huge hit by that 7-1 defeat to Germany). Even if Ecuador also win and beat Germany, Curacao would likely get through in third place by having four points. A draw would not be good enough.
What do Ivory Coast need to qualify?
18:10 , Jamie Braidwood
Despite a late 2-1 defeat to Germany last time out, Ivory Coast are still in a good position: if they avoid defeat to Curacao, they will finish as group runners-up, regardless of Ecuador’s result against Germany.
If Ivory Coast lose to Curacao, they would be leapfrogged by the tiny island nation. If Ecuador then beat Germany, they would be out. But if Ecuador fail to win, Ivory Coast could still go through as one of the best third-placed sides. They would be left on three points, but with a negative goal difference.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
