At the World Cup, some national teams write pages that give meaning to their participation in the final phase. They don't settle for less and believe in it. This is the case of Ecuador, who inflicted defeat on already-qualified Germany, earning a place in the round of 32 and proving that nothing can be taken for granted. And to think that the Germans took the lead after just two minutes with a precise low shot from Leroy Sané in a move that appeared to be tainted by a foul on an Ecuadorian player, but which neither the referee nor VAR deemed punishable. The South Americans, who had failed to score in their first two matches, managed to break free and equalize through Nilson Angulo after just seven minutes with a powerful finish that left experienced goalkeeper Neuer with no chance. It was crucial to believe, and Ecuador found the decisive goal in the final minutes when Gonzalo Plata, following a corner, anticipated the German goalkeeper's effort and volleyed it into the net. Ivory Coast also secured a historic qualification, defeating Curacao with a brace from Nicolas Pepé.
The Netherlands defeated Tunisia with three goals, the latter succumbing to a temporary draw. The Oranje secured first place in the group and will face Morocco. Japan and Sweden tied with one goal each. The second-placed Japanese will face Brazil, while Sweden advances as one of the best third-placed teams.
To mathematically secure qualification, Australia settled for a goalless draw against Paraguay, who can still hope to return to the top third-placed group. First place went to Mauricio Pochettino's USA, who came from behind to defeat 2-3 against Montella's Turkey, who proudly scored the 98th-minute winner at the Los Angeles Stadium through Kaan Ayhan.
Gonzalo Plata's joy after Ecuador's 2-1 win against Germany (Credit: Fifa.com)
