Undav inspires Germany comeback as four-time champions book Round of 32 spot

By Awambeng Fuh

Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon

Germany secured their place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after coming from behind to beat Côte d’Ivoire 2-1 in a thrilling Group E encounter on Saturday.

It was the second group match for both sides, with Germany seeking to maintain their perfect start after thrashing Curaçao in their opener, while Côte d’Ivoire entered the contest buoyed by their victory over Ecuador.

The Elephants made the brighter start and took the lead in the 30th minute when captain Franck Yannick Kessié finished clinically to hand the African side a deserved advantage at the break.

Germany struggled to find a breakthrough for much of the second half before head coach Julian Nagelsmann turned to his bench. The introduction of Deniz Undav proved decisive as the striker changed the complexion of the game.

Undav levelled matters in the 68th minute before striking again deep into stoppage time, scoring in the 90+4th minute to complete a dramatic turnaround and secure all three points for the four-time world champions.

The victory means Germany have now won their opening two matches and have officially booked their place in the Round of 32, ending any fears of another early exit after failing to progress beyond the group stage at the previous two World Cups.

For Côte d’Ivoire, defeat leaves qualification hopes hanging in the balance ahead of their final group match against Curaçao.

Goals
⚽ 30’ Franck Yannick Kessié (Côte d’Ivoire)
⚽ 68’ Deniz Undav (Germany)
⚽ 90+4’ Deniz Undav (Germany)

Full Time: 🇩🇪 Germany 2-1 Côte d’Ivoire 🇨🇮