Ecuador Stuns Germany 2–1 at MetLife — But La Tri Still Go Home

WorldCup.NYC Editorial — June 25, 2026

Group E Final Standings

Germany finish 1st on goal difference (+6 vs Ivory Coast's +2), both on 6 points.

What Happened

MetLife Stadium was the scene of one of the tournament's biggest shocks as Ecuador defeated Germany 2-1 in a Group E finale that had everything. Ecuador came in needing a win to have any chance of advancing, and they delivered — but the math still didn't work out for La Tri. Ecuador finish 3rd in Group E on 4 points, eliminated despite winning their final match.

Germany, who had demolished Curaçao 7-1 in MD2, absorbed the loss and still finished top of Group E on goal difference. Their +6 GD comfortably eclipsed Ivory Coast's +2. Both teams advance to the Round of 32.

In the simultaneous match in Philadelphia, Ivory Coast had no such drama, beating Curaçao 2-0 to clinch 2nd place and secure their knockout berth. Les Éléphants were in control throughout.

Ecuador's Stunning Turnaround — They're Through!

For the large Ecuadorian community in Jackson Heights, Queens, this is pure joy. Beating Germany at MetLife was a moment to remember — and the result counted for more than just pride. Ecuador's 4 points (1W 1D 1L) secured one of the 8 best 3rd-place spots. La Tri advance to the Round of 32 despite finishing 3rd in Group E. The win over Germany at MetLife will go down as one of the 2026 tournament's iconic moments.

What's Next — Round of 32

Germany advance as Group E winners and will face a best 3rd-place team (from Groups A/B/C/D/F) at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough on June 29, 9:30pm ET. Full R32 bracket →

Ivory Coast advance as Group E runners-up and face Norway (Group I runner-up) in Arlington, Texas on July 1 at 6pm ET ✅ CONFIRMED. They'll look to go deep in the knockout rounds. Where Ivory Coast fans watch in NYC →