HAMBURG, Jun 15 (SW) - Germany are through to the next round of the World Cup, following Ecuador's 3-0 win over Costa Rica in Group A.

The Germans had already beaten Poland 1-0 on Wednesday, and an Ecuador win over Costa Rica would decide this group.

As the South Americans beat their opponents on Thursday, they and Germany now have six points while Costa Rica and Poland have zero.

In the last match, Germany and Ecuador face each other. Due to the current goal record, Ecuador only need a draw to secure their first place in this group.

In the next round, these two teams play teams from Group B; England, Sweden, Paraguay or Trinidad & Tobago.