Undav Double Sends Germany Into World Cup Knockout Stage

Substitute Deniz Undav scored twice, including a dramatic stoppage-time winner, as Germany came from behind to beat Ivory Coast 2-1 and secure a place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The four-time world champions looked set for a frustrating evening after Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie gave the Elephants the lead in the 30th minute in Toronto.

Germany had earlier seen Aleksandar Pavlovic’s header ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, while Ivory Coast grew in confidence through the lively play of teenager Yan Diomande and winger Amad Diallo.

The breakthrough for the African side came when Diomande found Diallo, whose shot was blocked by Nathaniel Brown. Kessie reacted quickest to fire home the rebound and put Ivory Coast ahead.

Germany continued to push forward but were repeatedly denied. Kai Havertz had a goal disallowed after Jamal Musiala was judged to have fouled Emmanuel Agbadou in the build-up.

Ivory Coast then missed chances to increase their advantage, with Christ Inao Oulai and Kessie both failing to hit the target when presented with good opportunities.

Those missed chances proved costly as Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann turned to his bench for inspiration.

Undav, who had already made a major impact in Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curacao in their opening game, once again delivered when it mattered most.

The Stuttgart striker levelled the score in the 68th minute, finishing calmly from a cross by fellow substitute Nadiem Amiri.

As the match entered stoppage time, Germany completed the comeback. Felix Nmecha played a pass into Undav, who controlled the ball brilliantly before turning and firing past Fofana in the 94th minute.

The late goal sparked wild celebrations among the German players and supporters as Germany booked their place in the last 32.

For Ivory Coast, it was a heartbreaking defeat after a strong performance. However, Emerse Fae’s side still have a chance of progressing from Group E if they defeat World Cup debutants Curacao in their final group match.

Undav’s latest heroics further strengthened his reputation as Germany’s super-sub, having now scored three goals and provided two assists in just two World Cup appearances from the bench.