After Germany’s loss to Eucuador in the final match of the group stage, Germany’s captain, Joshua Kimmich spoke the media and gave a simple answer but powerful answer.
“The difference today was that the opponent wanted to win more than us,” Kimmich said (via DAZN as recorded by @iMiaSanMia). “Yeah, the atmosphere was amazing of course. You could feel that there were many people from Ecuador…you could really feel it in the second half and this is why they won today, really deserved.”
Germany clinched
the group after the second matchday — sitting on six points and beating Ivory Coast head to head — and did not have to take very many risks or really push at the end. They also made changes to the lineup and subbed out some of their high performers throughout the match.
On the other hand, the win meant everything for Ecuador. They had to win to make it through to the round of 32. With the late goal, their persistent defense, and help from the crowd, Ecuador finished the 2-1 comeback and celebrated their berth to the knockouts emphatically. The players and fans were visibly emotional after the final whistle.
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