June 25, 2026, 1:28 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Germany enters the final group match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup without pressure. The team, led by head coach Julian Nagelsmann, is already confirmed as the winner of Group E and has secured a spot in the round of 16. On Thursday, June 25, the German team will face Ecuador. For those who want to watch the match live on TV or via stream, here is all the important information about the broadcast.
Ecuador vs. Germany live on TV and stream
The match between Ecuador and Germany will be shown both on free TV and on a paid streaming service.
- Kickoff: Thursday, June 25, 2026, 10 p.m. (CEST)
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, New York (East Rutherford), New Jersey, USA
- Competition: World Cup group stage, Matchday 3, Group E
- TV and stream in Germany: ARD and MagentaTV
At the same time, Curaçao and Ivory Coast are also fighting for a spot in the knockout round. Later that night, the final decisions in Groups F and D will also take place.
Ecuador faces a decisive match
For Ecuador, the final group match is about the remaining chance to advance. After a 0-0 draw with Curaçao and a 1-0 loss to Ivory Coast, the team is under significant pressure. Coach Sebastián Beccacece is facing increasing criticism following these results. In the worst-case scenario, the tournament could end for Ecuador after the group stage.
Despite the challenging situation, the team is not lacking in well-known names. Among them are PSG defender Willian Pacho, Arsenal’s Piero Hincapié, and Chelsea midfielder Moisés Caicedo. Together, they have a market value of around 230 million euros.
Germany uses the match for preparation
For the German team, the focus is on further preparation for the knockout phase. The national players want to maintain their current rhythm and enter the round of 16 with confidence. At the same time, some players from the second string might get playing time. Many fans had hoped for a World Cup appearance by goalkeeper Oliver Baumann, but head coach Julian Nagelsmann has already dismissed this possibility.
A look at the past record favors Germany. The German team has won both previous encounters with Ecuador. The goal difference from these matches is 7-2.
More World Cup matches in Groups F and D
The final group stage matches in Groups F and D are also taking place. The Netherlands will face Tunisia on Friday starting at 1 a.m. The game will be broadcast by ARD and MagentaTV. At the same time, Japan will play against Sweden, with this match available exclusively on MagentaTV.
Also of interest: All details about the 2026 FIFA World Cup at a glance
Starting at 4 a.m., the last games of Group D will follow. Turkey will face the USA, and Paraguay will play against Australia. Turkey vs. USA is only available on MagentaTV. Paraguay vs. Australia will be broadcast by ARD and MagentaTV.
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How viewers can watch the World Cup abroad
Outside of Germany, the match between Ecuador and Germany will also be broadcast for free. In Austria, ORF will handle the live broadcast. In Switzerland, Play SRF will show the match with Swiss commentary.
Due to geoblocking, these services can only be accessed in Germany using a VPN service. Additionally, the respective usage and licensing conditions of the providers apply. More information can be found in the separate guide “Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup for free: How to see all 104 matches with VPN,” including a channel overview and match schedule.
These broadcasters are showing the 2026 FIFA World Cup
All World Cup matches are available on MagentaTV. A selection of games will also be shown on ARD and ZDF. Streams are additionally offered via Joyn or Waipu.TV. Those who want to watch the World Cup with others can also view the matches in restaurants, provided they have a Gastro-Pass and show the games on Sky.