Ecuador and Ivory Coast Reach World Cup Last 32, Germany Fall
Ecuador beat Germany 2-1 to advance to the round of 32, while Ivory Coast defeated Curacao 2-0 to also secure knockout stage berth.
Ecuador stunned Germany with a 2-1 victory on Thursday in Group E of the World Cup, booking a place in the last 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams. The winning goal came 13 minutes from time when Gonzalo Plata slotted home from close range. Germany had already secured top spot in the group after wins over Ivory Coast and Curacao.
Ivory Coast also advanced to the knockout stage for the first time, eliminating Curacao with a 2-0 win. Nicolas Pepe scored both goals. Curacao, the smallest nation by population ever to play in a World Cup, finished bottom with one point.
Several other matches took place on Thursday. The United States, already Group D winners, face Turkey and plan to rest players like Chris Richards and Tyler Adams who are at risk of suspension. Group F remains tight with Netherlands, Japan, and Sweden vying for top spots; Tunisia has been eliminated after heavy losses.
Brazil defeated Scotland 3-0 with Neymar making his first international appearance since October 2023. Mexico beat Czech Republic 3-0 to finish Group A with a perfect record. South Africa secured a historic qualification to the last 32 by beating South Korea 1-0, sparking celebrations back home.
