Germany booked their place in the World Cup knockout stages in dramatic fashion after coming from behind to defeat Ivory Coast 2-1, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from super-sub Deniz Undav.
The Germans looked set for disappointment after falling behind in the first half to a strike from Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie. However, head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s substitutions changed the course of the match, with Undav producing a match-winning display off the bench.
Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute when teenage winger Yan Diomande created an opening for Amad Diallo. Although Nathaniel Brown blocked Diallo’s initial effort, Kessie reacted quickest to slot home the rebound and send the African side into the break ahead.
Germany had earlier seen Aleksandar Pavlovic’s header ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, while Kai Havertz also had a goal disallowed after Jamal Musiala was judged to have fouled Emmanuel Agbadou in the build-up.
Despite trailing, Germany continued to press and eventually found a breakthrough in the 68th minute. Nadiem Amiri, another substitute, delivered a precise cross that Undav converted with a composed finish to level the score.
Ivory Coast had opportunities to restore their lead, with Christ Inao Oulai and Kessie both missing promising chances. Those misses came back to haunt Emerse Fae’s side deep into stoppage time.
In the 94th minute, Felix Nmecha picked out Undav inside the box and the Stuttgart forward controlled brilliantly before turning and firing past Fofana to seal a thrilling comeback victory.
The goal capped another outstanding cameo from Undav, who had already scored once and provided two assists as a substitute in Germany’s 7-1 demolition of Curacao in their opening match.
While Germany celebrate progression to the last 16, Ivory Coast still have their fate in their own hands and can qualify from Group E with a victory over World Cup newcomers Curacao in their final group game.
