Toronto: Germany secured a dramatic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout rounds after completing a sensational 2-1 comeback victory against the Ivory Coast at Toronto Stadium. Super-sub Deniz Undav was the hero, netting a late double to overturn an early deficit and conquer a night of immense frustration for the four-time world champions.

Germany entered the Group E clash full of confidence following a comprehensive 7-1 opening win over Curaçao. However, Julian Nagelsmann's side found themselves facing adversity early on. In the 22nd minute, Aleksandar Pavlović appeared to give Germany the lead with a header from a corner, but the goal was quickly nullified after the referee ruled a foul had occurred during a collision with Ivorian goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

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The disappointment compounded for the Germans just eight minutes later. In the 30th minute, Ivory Coast broke the deadlock when Yan Diomande beat Joshua Kimmich on the flank and delivered a dangerous cross into the box. While Amad Diallo's initial effort was blocked, the rebound fell perfectly to Ivorian captain Franck Kessié, who clinically slotted it past Manuel Neuer from close range to make it 1-0.

Germany thought they had restored parity in the 39th minute when Kai Havertz found the back of the net. However, the equaliser was chalked off following a VAR review, which penalised Jamal Musiala for a foul on Odilon Kossounou during the buildup.

Trailing at half-time, Nagelsmann turned to his bench, introducing VfB Stuttgart forward Deniz Undav in the 59th minute. In the 68th minute, Undav met a cross with a brilliant header to level the score at 1-1, rejuvenating the travelling German contingent.

The match appeared destined for a draw until deep into stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Felix Nmecha delivered a precise pass to find Undav just outside the penalty area. The forward turned his marker brilliantly and swept a clinical finish past the scrambling Fofana, triggering absolute pandemonium in Toronto.

The 2-1 victory officially banishes the ghosts of Germany's recent footballing past, sealing early qualification to the Round of 32 and ensuring they avoid a third consecutive World Cup group-stage exit.