
Germany’s final Group E match at the FIFA World Cup 2026 ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Ecuador, but the biggest talking point after the match was the differing opinions within the German camp. While head coach Julian Nagelsmann insisted tactical errors were responsible for the defeat, captain Joshua Kimmich and forward Deniz Undav believed Ecuador simply showed greater desire and determination.
Having already secured qualification for the Round of 32 with wins over Curacao and Cote d’Ivoire, Germany entered the match with little pressure. Leroy Sane gave his side the perfect start by scoring inside two minutes, but Ecuador responded quickly through Nilson Angulo before Gonzalo Plata netted the winner in the second half to seal a famous victory.
Kimmich and Undav Believe Ecuador Wanted the Win More
Speaking after the match, Deniz Undav admitted Germany lacked the same level of intensity shown by Ecuador throughout the contest.
“I had the feeling that they wanted it more than we did. Ecuador were more aggressive and more tenacious. We have to learn from this because they gave 100 percent in every challenge,” Undav said.
Captain Joshua Kimmich echoed those sentiments, insisting Ecuador deserved all three points because they displayed greater hunger from start to finish.
“The difference today was that the opponent wanted to win more than us. That’s why they deserved to win,” Kimmich stated.
Nagelsmann Rejects Claims Over Lack of Desire
Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann strongly rejected suggestions that his players lacked commitment, describing such criticism as “nonsense.”
“We started brilliantly but committed tactical suicide with our positioning after taking the lead. Ecuador had everything to play for, but I cannot say any of my players failed to give their all. That’s too simplistic,” Nagelsmann explained.
The defeat has highlighted contrasting opinions within the Germany camp ahead of the knockout stage. While Nagelsmann believes tactical mistakes cost his side, senior players Joshua Kimmich and Deniz Undav feel Ecuador’s superior desire made the decisive difference.
Germany will now turn their attention to the Round of 32, where they will face one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams in Boston.
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