Germany sealed their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a thrilling contest against Ivory Coast, with Denis Undav emerging as the hero in a dramatic 2-1 victory. It was a brilliant game of football, filled with intensity, physical battles, attacking moments and late drama.
Both teams started cautiously, keeping things tight in the opening minutes, but Germany thought they had taken an early lead when they found the back of the net. However, the goal was ruled out after Aleksandar Pavlovic was adjudged to have interfered with the goalkeeper by getting his arm between the keeper and the ball, resulting in a free-kick for Ivory Coast.
After the hydration break, the Ivorians struck first. Captain Franck Kessié fired his side ahead from inside the box after a sensational piece of wing play from highly-rated youngster Yan Diomande.
Germany responded with relentless pressure after going behind, creating multiple chances and having two goals ruled out. Ivory Coast, however, remained disciplined, defending as a unit and using their pace on the flanks to trouble the German backline.
The momentum changed after the introduction of Denis Undav. The Stuttgart forward made an immediate impact, scoring with Germany’s first shot on target of the second half. Undav made a clever late run into the box and calmly converted Nadiem Amiri’s cross with his left foot to bring the Germans level. With both teams pushing for the winner in a dramatic closing period, Germany showed their championship mentality.
In stoppage time, Lukas Nmecha found Undav with a powerful pass, and the forward turned brilliantly before firing past Yahia Fofana from inside the area to complete the comeback. Ivory Coast’s defensive structure had stood firm for most of the contest, but a momentary lapse in concentration allowed Germany to snatch all three points.
After disappointing exits in the previous two editions, Germany have finally booked their place in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Denis Undav delivering a memorable match-winning performance.