A thrilling final day of 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage action delivered a series of shocks, late winners and unexpected eliminations as teams battled for places in the round of 32 across venues in the United States.
One of the standout results saw Ecuador produce a remarkable comeback to defeat Germany 2-1 at the MetLife Stadium. Germany took an early lead through Leroy Sané in the second minute, but Ecuador responded quickly with Nilson Angulo levelling the score. Gonzalo Plata then completed the turnaround with a 77th-minute winner to send the South Americans through to the knockout stage, although Germany still progressed as group leaders on goal difference.
Elsewhere in Group E, Ivory Coast secured qualification with a 2-0 win over Curaçao, thanks to a double from Nicolas Pépé, marking a historic milestone for the African side in the expanded tournament.
In Group F, Japan and Sweden shared a 1-1 draw to both confirm their progression, while the Netherlands finished top of the group after a 3-1 victory over Tunisia.
Group D produced late drama as Türkiye stunned hosts United States with a 3-2 win sealed in stoppage time by Kaan Ayhan, despite the Americans already having qualified. Australia also advanced after a goalless draw with Paraguay.
Earlier results saw Mexico top Group A with a 3-0 win over Czechia, while South Africa edged South Korea 1-0 to secure second place in their group.
The results mean Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Japan, Sweden and Australia are among the confirmed qualifiers for the round of 32, with more teams to be decided as the group stage concludes.