Ecuador face Germany in a must-win World Cup 2026 fixture this Thursday, June 25, with kick-off at 9pm BST at the New York/New Jersey Stadium.
Group Stage Stakes
Ecuador came into the tournament as a dark horse after finishing above Brazil in qualifying, conceding just five goals in 18 games. However, a lack of firepower has cost them: defeat to Ivory Coast and a goalless draw with Curacao leave them needing a result to qualify as one of the top third-place teams. They currently sit below Congo DR and Czechia in that table due to fewer goals scored, but four points could be enough.
Germany, meanwhile, have already secured top spot in Group E after wins over Curacao and Ivory Coast, making this match a dead rubber for the four-time world champions.
Team News
Ecuador manager Sebastian Beccacece may stick with the same team or ditch the back five for a more attacking approach, after being thwarted by Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room, who made a tournament-high 15 saves. No fresh injury or suspension concerns affect the squad.
Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann can make wholesale changes, potentially resting Kai Havertz, Florian Wirtz, Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala and Manuel Neuer. Deniz Undav may start to boost his Golden Boot charge. However, Nico Schlotterbeck has been ruled out of the rest of the World Cup with an ankle injury sustained against Ivory Coast.
Prediction and Odds
Germany have looked vulnerable on the counter-attack even with their strongest team, so rotation should give Ecuador hope. The South Americans have yet to score at this World Cup, but a 1-1 draw is predicted.
Odds via UK betting sites: Ecuador to win 5/2, Germany to win 8/11, draw 5/2. Odds subject to change.
Head-to-Head and Viewing Info
Ecuador and Germany have met twice before, with Germany winning both. The match will be televised live on BBC One in the UK from 8.30pm BST, with live streaming on BBC iPlayer and the BBC website. Highlights will be available on FIFA's official YouTube channel and BBC iPlayer/ITVX.
