Leroy Sane’s controversial goal put Germany ahead in the second minute, but Ecuador scored for the first time in this World Cup in the ninth minute when Nilson Angulo equalized.
Then it became desperation late for Ecuador until Kevin Rodriguez, who entered in the 64th minute, flicked an incoming corner kick in front of the net, where Plata finished with a left-footed toe poke in the 77th minute.
The win is more than just a victory for the South American side. Not only it gave Ecuador a ticket to the knockouts at the World Cup for the first time since 2006, but also became the third team from the CONMEBOL region to defeat Germany at the football’s grandest stage.
Before Ecuador, Brazil (2002) and Argentina (1986) were the only two sides from the CONMEBOL region to beat Germany at the FIFA World Cup.
Germany equal Argentina in unwanted record
It was Germany’s 24th loss in the history of the World Cup in 115 matches, thus matching Argentina’s tally. The three-time champions have lost 24 in 90World Cup games. Mexico lead the chart with 28 defeats in 63 matches.
Teams to lose most FIFA World Cup matches
Whom do Germany and Ecuador face next?
As of now, Germany are yet to be assigned an opponent in the Round of 32. The 2014 champions will face one of the third placed teams from groups A, B. C, D or F on June 30 in Foxborough. As far as Ecuador are concerned, they are also yet to get an opponents.