Deniz Undav’s double fires Germany past Ivory Coast and seal knockout spot

Germany snatched a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast thanks to a stoppage-time winner from substitute Deniz Undav in an enthralling FIFA World Cup Group E encounter at Toronto Stadium on Saturday night.

The four-time world champions were made to work hard by a resilient Ivory Coast side that looked on course for a famous result after taking a first-half lead through captain Franck Kessié.

However, Undav emerged as Germany’s hero, scoring twice after coming off the bench to secure all three points and confirm his side’s place in the knockout rounds.

Germany dominated possession early on and created several promising chances.

Kai Havertz forced a fine save from goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, while Jamal Musiala narrowly missed the target.

Despite Germany’s strong start, it was Ivory Coast who struck first in the 30th minute.

A dangerous move initiated by Yan Diomande led to Amad Diallo having an effort blocked before Kessié reacted quickest to smash home the rebound and give Les Éléphants a shock lead.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side pushed relentlessly for an equaliser after the break.

Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Nadiem Amiri delivered an inviting cross that Undav volleyed into the net to level the score at 1-1.

Both teams then had opportunities to claim victory, with Simon Adingra wasting a golden chance for Ivory Coast before Germany delivered the decisive blow.

Deep into stoppage time, Felix Nmecha produced a brilliant through ball that found Undav, who turned sharply and fired beyond Fofana to spark wild celebrations among German supporters.

The late strike completed a remarkable comeback and maintained Germany's perfect start to the tournament.

Germany remain one of the most successful nations in World Cup history.

Die Mannschaft have won the FIFA World Cup four times—in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014—and have also lifted three UEFA European Championship titles.

Their rich football heritage makes them perennial contenders on the global stage.

Head coach Julian Nagelsmann is regarded as one of football’s brightest tactical minds.

Although still relatively young by coaching standards, he guided Bayern Munich to the Bundesliga title in 2021-22 and has earned widespread acclaim for his innovative style of play and player development.

For Ivory Coast, the performance was another sign of their growing stature in international football.

The West African nation has qualified for four World Cups and is a three-time Africa Cup of Nations champion, having lifted the continental crown in 1992, 2015 and 2023.

They are among Africa’s most consistent football powers.

Their coach, Emerse Faé, enjoyed a successful playing career with clubs including Nantes, Reading and Nice before leading Ivory Coast to a memorable AFCON 2023 triumph on home soil.

That achievement cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most promising young coaches.

Germany will now look to secure top spot in Group E, while Ivory Coast remain firmly in contention to reach the knockout stage despite the heartbreaking defeat.

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