Lowly Ecuador, the team that wasn’t expected to be able to compete at sea level, has bounced Poland and Costa Rica out of the World Cup. Costa Rica didn’t seem to comprehend what exactly was at stake in the match as they were soundly thrashed 3-0.

What it also means is that a draw in the last match of the Group won’t be good enough for Germany to take the top spot. England will probably be in the unusual position of praying for a German win against Ecuador.

That won’t be a problem.

Ecuador will be very pleased at being able to take advantage of the Poland slip, while playing over their heads themselves for two matches, to get themselves out of the group stage.

Whatever else happens, this team will surely be considered the weakest in the next round.