Angulo's stunner ends Ecuador's drought!

Nilson Angulo ended Ecuador's scoreless drought at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring a long-range equalizer against Germany in the 9th minute. This vital goal provided La Tri with renewed hope in their crucial Group E match. Ecuador had entered the final group game without a goal in their prior two appearances, placing them on the brink of elimination.

Germany initially took the lead in the 2nd minute. However, Ecuador responded swiftly. Following a defensive play by Pedro Vite, Angulo received the ball on the left flank and unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom right corner. This marked Ecuador's first World Cup goal of the tournament.

Angulo, who recently turned 23, has a notable career trajectory. After developing at LDU Quito, he moved to Anderlecht in June 2022. His performances in Belgium led to a transfer to Sunderland on February 2, 2026, for a reported $15.2 million, where he inherited the No. 10 shirt. He made his Ecuador debut in October 2021 and was included in the squad for this World Cup.

Despite Angulo's equalizer, Ecuador still required additional goals and favorable results in other matches to advance to the knockout stage, with the pressure of a must-win scenario intensifying throughout the game.