World Cup 2026 Roundup: Ecuador Stun Germany, Cape Verde Make History, Uruguay Crash Out

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The 2026 World Cup group stage is nearly complete, and Saturday delivered another evening of drama, shock results, and historic moments across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Here’s everything you need to know from June 27.


Ecuador 2-1 Germany: Plata the Hero

Gonzalo Plata wrote his name into Ecuadorian football history as his golden touch sent Germany to a stunning defeat. The Ecuadorian forward scored once and assisted another as La Tri pulled off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets, beating the 2014 World Cup winners 2-1.

Germany had looked strong earlier in the group, including a 7-1 demolition of Curaçao, but Ecuador’s disciplined defensive display and lethal counter-attacks proved too much. The result sees Ecuador advance to the last 32 alongside Group E winners Germany and CĂ´te d’Ivoire.

Cape Verde Write Another Fairytale Chapter

Making their World Cup debut, Cape Verde secured their place in the knockout stages after a 0-0 draw with Saudi Arabia. The tiny island nation — the smallest country by population at any World Cup — held firm against a desperate Saudi side to finish second in Group H behind Spain.

It’s a remarkable achievement for a nation of just over 500,000 people. Cape Verde drew all three group games — against Spain, Uruguay, and Saudi Arabia — showing incredible defensive organization and heart.

Spain 1-0 Uruguay: Bielsa Era Ends in Tears

Alex Baena’s first-half strike was enough to send Spain top of Group H and eliminate Uruguay. The South Americans needed a win but were reduced to 10 men when AgustĂ­n Canobbio was sent off late in the second half.

The defeat marks the end of Marcelo Bielsa’s tenure as Uruguay manager. The legendary Argentine coach admitted: “I haven’t left anything to Uruguayan football” — a heartbreaking admission from one of the game’s most respected minds.

France 4-1 Norway: Dembélé Hat-Trick

Ousmane Dembélé was unplayable as France topped Group I with a thumping 4-1 win over Norway. The Paris Saint-Germain winger scored a stunning hat-trick, leaving Norwegian defenders scrambling. France look like genuine contenders for a second World Cup title.

Belgium 5-1 New Zealand & More Results

Belgium found their form at the perfect time, crushing New Zealand 5-1 to book their place in the last 32. The Socceroos secured their spot after a tense 0-0 draw with Paraguay, advancing from Group D alongside the United States. Senegal also impressed with a 5-0 demolition of Iraq.

Controversy: Iran Coach Blasts US

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei launched a scathing attack on the United States as World Cup hosts, telling FIFA president Gianni Infantino he must “stand up” to the Americans. “This must never happen again,” Ghalenoei said.

Pochettino to Stay with US Soccer

In other news, US Soccer has offered Mauricio Pochettino a contract extension through to the 2030 World Cup. The former Tottenham, Chelsea, and PSG boss was expected to attract interest from Europe after the tournament.


Key Results — June 27, 2026

MatchScoreGroup
Spain vs Uruguay1-0H
Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia0-0H
Ecuador vs Germany2-1E
France vs Norway4-1I
Belgium vs New Zealand5-1G
Australia vs Paraguay0-0D
Senegal vs Iraq5-0I

Upcoming Matches

England takes on Panama in a crucial Group L clash on Saturday, needing a result to secure progression. Thomas Tuchel’s side has struggled against deep defensive blocks in recent matches.


FAQ

Who has qualified for the World Cup 2026 last 32 so far?

Teams confirmed include Mexico, Spain, France, Belgium, Australia, Ecuador, the United States, Cape Verde, Brazil, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and others. The final spots will be decided after the remaining group matches.

Is this Cape Verde’s first World Cup?

Yes. Cape Verde is making their World Cup debut in 2026, and qualifying for the knockout stages in their first attempt is a historic achievement for the West African nation of just 500,000 people.

What happened to Uruguay?

Uruguay finished third in Group H and were eliminated after losing 1-0 to Spain. Marcelo Bielsa confirmed the result likely ends his tenure as head coach.

Where can I watch World Cup 2026 matches?

Matches are broadcast on Fox Sports (English) and Telemundo (Spanish) in the US, and can be streamed via platforms like Fubo, YouTube TV, and Sling TV.


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