Germany booked their place in the World Cup knockout rounds for the first time since 2014 after substitute Deniz Undav struck twice to inspire a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast in Toronto on Saturday.
The four-time world champions looked destined for a difficult evening after Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute through captain Franck Kessié. The midfielder reacted quickest after Amad Diallo’s effort was blocked, calmly slotting into an empty net to hand the Elephants a deserved advantage at BMO Field.
However, Germany responded strongly after the break, with Undav emerging as the hero of the night.
The substitute netted twice, including a late winner, to complete Germany’s turnaround and seal qualification for the Round of 32, ending years of World Cup frustration following group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022.
The victory marks another significant step in Germany’s resurgence on football’s biggest stage, while Ivory Coast were left devastated after coming within touching distance of a famous result.
For the Germans, the dream of lifting a fifth World Cup title remains alive. For the Elephants, it was a night of heartbreak as a late blow shattered their hopes.
