Undav's stoppage-time winner completes Germany's comeback against Ivory Coast in World Cup thriller

Group stage stakes

Germany entered the match needing a win to guarantee a place in the round of 32 after a 7-0 victory over Curaçao. Ivory Coast also had three points, making the encounter in Toronto a group decider. Neither side could afford to lose.

First half: German dominance and Ivorian opener

Germany controlled the early stages. Kai Havertz's header in the 10th minute was saved by Yahia Fofana, and Jamal Musiala shot just wide eight minutes later. In the 21st minute, Aleksandar Pavlovic turned the ball home, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on the goalkeeper. Ivory Coast struck against the run of play in the 30th minute: Amad Diallo's shot was blocked, but Franck Kessie pounced on the rebound to score. Germany thought they had equalised in the 39th minute when Havertz found the net, only for the goal to be ruled out again for a foul in the build-up. Wilfried Boni also forced Manuel Neuer into a save shortly before.

Second half: Undav's impact off the bench

Julian Nagelsmann introduced Deniz Undav for Musiala at the hour mark. Ivory Coast remained threatening, with Eric Junior Boni's shot saved and an effort from Olaï going over. The equaliser arrived in the 68th minute: Nadiem Amiri crossed from the right and Undav finished first time. Both sides pushed for a winner as the clock ticked into stoppage time.

Late drama and group qualification

In the fourth minute of added time, Enmetsa delivered a precise assist and Undav fired home to complete the turnaround. The 2-1 result sends Germany to the last 32 with six points, ending a sequence of group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022. Ivory Coast, on three points, must beat Curaçao in their final fixture to have any chance of advancing. Neuer set a new record for goalkeepers with his 21st World Cup finals appearance, surpassing Hugo Lloris.