Supersub Deniz Undav struck twice, including a last-gasp winner, as Germany came from behind to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1 in a thrilling 2026 World Cup Group E clash on Saturday.
Franck Kessie gave Ivory Coast a deserved first-half lead in the 30th minute, but Undav equalised in the 68th minute before sealing victory deep into stoppage time.
Julian Nagelsmann’s triple substitution at half-time proved decisive, with Undav and Nadiem Amiri combining effectively off the bench.
The result sends Germany into the knockout stages for the first time since 2014, while Ivory Coast remain in contention ahead of their final group match against Curacao.
Nagelsmann praised Undav’s impact: “He reached the highest point of the World Cup. We could have him in the starting lineup. Maybe he can start next time.”
The victory was not without cost, as defender Nico Schlotterbeck suffered what appeared to be a muscle injury.
Germany will face Ecuador in their final group game in New York/New Jersey on June 25.
