With the knockout stages of World Cup 2026 looming, Ecuador pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Germany 2-1 and seal a last-32 spot.
Elsewhere, the Netherlands comprehensively outplayed Tunisia in a 3-1 win, while Turkey left it late to clinch a 3-2 victory over tournament co-hosts USA.
Sweden battled to a 1-1 draw with Japan, Australia and Paraguay played out a 0-0 stalemate and Ivory Coast overcame World Cup debutants Curaçao 2-0.
Germany fall to Ecuador
Ecuador surprised Germany in New Jersey thanks to Gonzalo Plata’s 77th-minute winner, with Nilson Angulo having earlier cancelled out Leroy Sané’s opener in an eventful first half.
“We have to learn that, after a good start and an early lead, we can play with more composure instead of suddenly switching positions too much,” Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann explained to ARD.
“There was too much freestyle.
“We just need to be more patient and stay a bit more structured in our positions – and if on top of that we are giving the ball away too often, at some point it becomes difficult.”
Ecuador head coach Sebastián Beccacece was understandably over the moon with the result, telling the official FIFA website: “It is not about what it means to me – this is for the people.
“The players have given them this qualification. Let them celebrate and enjoy it.”
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Netherlands outclass struggling Tunisia
Tunisia’s miserable World Cup came to an end as strikes from Brian Brobbey and Jan Paul van Hecke, plus an own goal by Ellyes Skhiri, saw the Netherlands secure all three points in Kansas City.
Hazem Mastouri managed a second-half effort for the African side, who had sacked their head coach after the opening group-stage game.
Analysing the game for Sky Sports, Callum Bishop said: “While the Netherlands controlled the game throughout, they certainly didn’t have it all their own way – Tunisia came to play and had plenty of chances themselves.
“What was most impressive, though, was the way in which Ronald Koeman’s side responded to the warnings.
“Can they do that against tougher opposition? The knockout stages will tell us.
“However, the way they have gone about their business with 10 goals in three games would make them frightening opposition for many.”
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Turkey edge co-hosts USA
USA took an early lead in Los Angeles through Auston Trusty, but eliminated Turkey hit back through first-half goals from Arda Güler and Barış Yilmaz.
Sebastian Berhalter then levelled matters in the second period before Turkey grabbed a 98th-minute winner courtesy of substitute Kaan Ayhan.
Reflecting on the loss, USA midfielder Weston McKennie admitted: “Turkey were very clinical and finished their chances.
“The momentum will still be there for us, for sure. Everyone wants to go into the next game having won the previous game, but I think it’s going to motivate us even more.
“All 26 players we have on this roster can step up and do the job. We believe in everyone on this roster and that everyone will step up and contribute to the team.”
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Simon Wilkes