Germany secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Group E, recording their second consecutive win of the tournament. Substitute Denis Undav emerged as the hero, scoring twice in the second half to complete a dramatic comeback and maintain Germany’s perfect start.
Ivory Coast, one of Africa’s strongest representatives, produced a disciplined and energetic performance in the opening half. Their efforts were rewarded in the 30th minute when captain Franck Kessié found the net after a swift attacking move, giving the Elephants a deserved 1-0 lead.
Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Germany struggled to break down the Ivorian defense before halftime. Head coach Julian Nagelsmann responded with tactical adjustments after the break, and the changes quickly altered the course of the match.
Germany finally drew level in the 68th minute when Denis Undav met a precise delivery from Nadiem Amiri and fired home to make it 1-1. The equalizer sparked an intense final phase, with both sides pushing for a winner as the contest opened up.
Just as the match appeared headed for a draw, Germany struck the decisive blow deep into stoppage time. In the fourth minute of added time, Felix Nmecha picked out Undav with a perfectly weighted pass, and the forward calmly finished past the goalkeeper to complete the turnaround and seal a dramatic 2-1 victory.
The result leaves Germany on six points from two matches, firmly at the top of Group E. Having opened their campaign with an emphatic 7-1 win over Curaçao, the four-time world champions have now taken a significant step toward a deep run in the tournament.
Ivory Coast remain on three points and still have a realistic chance of progressing to the knockout rounds. Their final group match against Curaçao will be crucial in determining their fate.
Germany will conclude their Group E campaign against Ecuador, needing only a draw to secure top spot. With two wins from two matches and growing confidence under Nagelsmann, Germany have reinforced their status as one of the leading contenders for the 2026 World Cup title.
