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Germany's early goal against Ecuador in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup group-stage match has sparked controversy, with several refereeing experts arguing it should have been ruled out due to a foul in the build-up.

The incident occurred just before Leroy Sané opened the scoring in the second minute. Midfielder Aleksandar Pavlović challenged for the ball with a high foot, striking Ecuador's Pedro Vite in the face as the midfielder attempted a header. Despite the contact, referee Tori Penso allowed play to continue, and Sané scored moments later.

The decision has drawn criticism from former and current officials. German refereeing instructor Lutz Wagner said the goal should have been reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), adding that Germany would have had little reason to complain if it had been disallowed.

Former Germany international Bastian Schweinsteiger also questioned the decision, noting that many spectators were surprised the VAR did not intervene. Former Bundesliga referee Patrick Ittrich echoed those views, describing the challenge as a "clear foul" and insisting the goal should not have stood because Pavlović's foot was dangerously high and made direct contact with Vite.

Despite the controversy, Sané's strike earned a place in Germany's World Cup history. His goal came after just 109 seconds, making it the second-fastest World Cup goal ever scored by a German player. Only Ernst Lehner scored sooner, finding the net in the opening minute against Austria at the 1934 World Cup.

Although the goal stood, the refereeing decision remained one of the major talking points following Germany's 2-1 defeat to Ecuador.