Ecuador has qualified for the World Cup knockout stage for the first time since 2006 after coming from behind to defeat Germany 2-1.
Gonzalo Plata scored the winning goal in the 77th minute, poking the ball past German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to seal the victory.
The win saw Ecuador finish third in Group E with four points and progress beyond the group stage for only the second time in the country’s history.
Plata said the team endured difficult moments in its opening matches but is now motivated to go even further in the tournament.
Ecuador, which has lost just one of its last 22 matches, could face Mexico in the next round.
Germany had already secured qualification after winning its first two group games and will now prepare for its knockout-round fixture, likely against Paraguay, Australia or Sweden.
