Germany came from behind to beat the Ivory Coast 2-1 in a Group E encounter of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and advanced to the knockout stages on Sunday. Deniz Undav scored two goals off the bench as Germany pulled off a thrilling comeback victory.  

It took the German side nearly 12 years to book a place in the knockout stages since their last World Cup triumph in 2014.

Despite having two goals disallowed in the first half, Germany maintained relentless pressure on the Ivory Coast throughout the match. The West African side also displayed exceptional skill and fighting spirit.

“This is a really important victory,” said Undav, who now has nine goals in his last eight matches.

“We showed great character today.”

Germany was trailing when Undav levelled the score with a controlled volley in the 68th minute and struck again in stoppage time to secure the win. The Ivory Coast now faces a do-or-die encounter to book a place in the round of 32.

Reacting to the loss, Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo said, “We wanted to make history today, but I think everything was a little tight.”

With more than 100,000 people of German ancestry living in Toronto, Julian Nagelsmann’s men enjoyed strong support but were a frustrated side at half-time after failing to convert eight attempts on goal. Meanwhile, another Group E match between Ecuador and Curacao turned out to be a thrilling contest that ended in a draw.

Curaçao’s goalkeeper set a new record by saving 28 direct shots from Ecuador — the highest number by any goalkeeper in a World Cup match since 1996.