Ecuador, the Netherlands and the United States headline a dramatic World Cup day
A busy day at the 2026 World Cup wrapped up groups D, E and F and moved the tournament closer to the round of 32. Ecuador beat Germany 2-1 in a result that mattered little to the Germans but sent the South Americans through in third place from their group.
In the other Group E match, Ivory Coast secured a 2-0 win over Curacao and finished second. The Netherlands then defeated Tunisia 3-1 as planned despite concerns about lightning storms, clinching first place in the group. Japan and Sweden played to a 1-1 draw, a result that sent both teams through, with Japan advancing second and Sweden third.
Group D closed the night, or early morning, with the host United States fielding a rotated lineup after already locking up first place. Turkey stunned the Americans 3-2 with a goal deep in stoppage time. In the parallel match, Paraguay and Australia drew 0-0, a result that guaranteed Australia second place and left Paraguay waiting on results elsewhere, though it is close to advancing.
The round of 32 is scheduled to begin on Sunday evening. The article also pointed readers to match highlights, a prediction game and a weekly quiz with prizes.
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