Ecuador shocked Germany by 2-1 on Thursday in the ongoing FIFA World Cup to qualify for the knockout stage. The South American team had lost their opening clash against Ivory Coast and then drew with Curaçao, and thus had to win at all cost against Germany to qualify for the round of 32.

Leroy Sane gave an early lead to Germany in the second minute of play; however, Nilson Angulo scored Ecuador’s first goal of the tournament to equalize in the ninth minute.

Substitute Kevin Rodríguez then scored the match-winning goal for Ecuador to seal their knockout place.

“Today we’ve beaten the record for the third time — three full stadiums full of Ecuadorian people,” Ecuador manager Beccacece said in a news conference.

“We need to enjoy this journey as well. Sometimes you have to struggle, but the important thing is to remain united.”

Beccacece had faced criticism from supporters after the team’s slow start to the World Cup.

“I apologize to all of those who still haven’t clicked with me,” he added. “I am feeling very grateful to the entire people of Ecuador, who have travelled north to south in Ecuador believing in their team for many teams. I’ve always found a very kind, hardworking, grateful people. That’s what I’m trying to show.

“For as long as we are still alive, we need to seek the light. If we can’t find the light, we will deal with that sorrow, that pain when you don’t achieve what you dreamt of.

“But we are talking about an entire country that is now celebrating. So let them enjoy, have a beer and celebrate with their family.”

Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich admitted Ecuador wanted the win more than them, especially in the second half.

“The difference was today that the opponent wanted to win more than us, and you could really feel it, especially in the second half,” Kimmich said.