Undav heroics help Germany beat Ivory Coast

In the Toronto sunshine, Deniz Undav's injury-time winner helped Germany to a comeback win against the Ivory Coast in their second game at the 2026 World Cup. The result also secures their spot in the knockout rounds for the first time since 2014.

The team ranked 30 in the world provided a much tougher test than Curacao, and took the lead thanks to Franck Kessie. Yan Diomande, who plays for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, was a problem. Germany captain Joshua Kimmich struggled against the winger, and it was his pass that set up Kessie for the Ivory Coast's opener after half an hour.

Germany had two goals ruled out for fouls in the build-up as the favorites were left frustrated at not being able to make the most of their chances. Julian Nagelsmann cut an animated figure on the sideline and unlike in Houston, the drinks break acted against Germany as Kessie's goal came soon after. While the majority of fans in the stadium were wearing Germany colors, the orange pockets of Ivory Coast supporters in the Toronto stadium were strikingly enthusiastic and passionate.

The Ivory Coast had chances to add a second after the restart, but couldn't test Neuer. After an hour, the German fans called for Deniz Undav and Nagelsmann responded. His search for answers was rewarded. Just over 20 minutes to go, Nadiem Amiri's deep cross was turned home by Deniz Undav, whose reputation as a super sub grows with every game.

Both sides had chances to win it in the final stages, and it looked as though neither side would take their chance until Undav popped up with a goal deep in injury time.

With six points, Germany have qualified for the knockouts and top spot is in their grasp. Germany's final Group E game will be in New York on June 25.

More to follow...