Germany booked their place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stages after substitute Deniz Undav scored a dramatic stoppage-time winner to complete a remarkable comeback and secure a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast.
The four-time world champions appeared headed for disappointment after falling behind in the first half, but head coach Julian Nagelsmann’s changes from the bench proved decisive as Undav struck twice in the second half to turn the match around.
Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute through captain Franck Kessie. The move began when 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande picked out Amad Diallo, whose close-range effort was blocked by Nathaniel Brown before Kessie reacted quickest to convert the rebound.
Germany had earlier thought they had opened the scoring when Aleksandar Pavlovic headed home from a corner in the 22nd minute, only for the goal to be ruled out for a foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.
Despite enjoying much of the possession, Germany struggled to break down a disciplined Ivorian side. Their frustration deepened when Kai Havertz had a goal disallowed after Jamal Musiala was adjudged to have fouled Emmanuel Agbadou in the build-up.
Nagelsmann’s substitutions eventually changed the course of the game. Undav drew Germany level in the 68th minute, applying a composed finish to a precise cross from fellow substitute Nadiem Amiri.
The Stuttgart striker continued his impressive tournament form, having scored once and provided two assists as a substitute in Germany’s 7-1 opening victory over Curacao. He delivered again deep into stoppage time, expertly controlling a pass from Felix Nmecha before turning and firing beyond Fofana in the 94th minute.
Ivory Coast will rue missed opportunities to extend their lead, with both Christ Inao Oulai and Kessie failing to capitalize on good chances in the second half. The defeat leaves Emerse Fae’s side needing a victory over World Cup debutants Curacao in their final Group E match to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds alive.
