World Cup 2026: Germany Beat Ivory Coast on Late Undav Goal
Deniz Undav scores twice, including a stoppage-time winner, as Germany come from behind to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory in Toronto.
Germany booked their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Saturday in Toronto.
Deniz Undav came off the bench to score twice, including a winner deep into stoppage time, as Germany overturned a first-half deficit and maintained their perfect start to the tournament.
Ivory Coast Strike First
Ivory Coast frustrated Germany for much of the first half and took the lead in the 30th minute.
Captain Franck Kessié found the back of the net after a well-worked move, giving the African side a deserved advantage and putting Germany under pressure for the first time in the tournament.
Germany pushed for an immediate response but struggled to break down a disciplined Ivory Coast defense before halftime.
Undav Changes the Game
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann turned to his bench in the second half, introducing Deniz Undav as his side searched for a way back into the match.
The substitution proved decisive.
Undav equalized in the 68th minute, bringing Germany level and shifting momentum firmly in favor of the four-time world champions.
With the score tied, Germany continued to press forward while Ivory Coast looked to hold on for a valuable point.
Stoppage-Time Heartbreak for Ivory Coast
Just as the match appeared destined to end in a draw, Germany found a breakthrough.
Undav struck again in stoppage time, completing his brace and sending German supporters into celebration. The late goal secured all three points and guaranteed Germany a place in the Round of 16.
The dramatic finish was a cruel blow for Ivory Coast, who had produced one of their strongest performances of the tournament.
Germany Advance, Ivory Coast Face Pressure
The victory leaves Germany in a commanding position in Group E after winning their opening two matches.
For Ivory Coast, the defeat means qualification hopes remain alive but likely depend on the outcome of their final group-stage match.
Despite the loss, the Ivorians showed they can compete with one of the tournament favorites and will take encouragement from large portions of their performance.
What the Result Means
Germany become one of the first teams to secure a place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup, continuing their strong start under Julian Nagelsmann.
The match also highlighted the impact of Deniz Undav, whose two goals off the bench turned a difficult afternoon into another important victory for Germany.
As the group stage enters its final round, Germany can now focus on finishing top of the group, while Ivory Coast face a must-win situation to keep their World Cup journey alive.