By Samuel Akpan
Deniz Undav emerged as Germany’s match-winner, scoring twice as a substitute including a stoppage-time strike that sank Ivory Coast and confirmed the European side’s progression to the World Cup last 32.
The contest started with promise for Germany as Kai Havertz directed a header towards goal early on, only for Ivory Coast custodian Yahia Fofana to produce a fine save.
Ivory Coast soon hit back and took the lead midway through the opening period. Yan Diomande exploited space on the left to deliver a cross that Amad Diallo’s effort could only deflect into the path of Franck Kessie, who slotted home from close range.
Ange-Yoan Bonny threatened to extend the advantage moments later, but his curling shot was denied by veteran German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
Germany nearly restored parity before half-time when Havertz curled a superb effort into the net, but the referee disallowed the goal upon reviewing an earlier foul committed on Emmanuel Agbadou during the build-up.
The second half belonged largely to the Germans, who piled on pressure.
Havertz came agonizingly close once more, his header dropping just wide of the upright.
Changes from the bench proved pivotal for Germany.
Deniz Undav linked up with fellow substitute Amiri to draw level, the striker applying a clinical finish to his teammate’s well-weighted pass.
Amiri nearly grabbed the winner in stoppage time himself, only to see his tame effort easily gathered by the goalkeeper.
Undav was not to be denied, however. Deep into additional time, he latched onto a brilliant pass from Felix Nmecha and converted with composure to hand Germany a 2-1 triumph.
The victory secures Germany’s place in the knockout phase and leaves them well-positioned to claim top spot in the group when they face Ecuador next week.
Ivory Coast, meanwhile, still require a positive result against Curacao to guarantee their own advancement.
Undav’s outstanding contribution saw him become the first player to achieve five goal involvements at the ongoing 2026 World Cup, comprising three goals and two assists.
The tally equals the all-time record for most goal involvements by a substitute in a single tournament, previously set by Roger Milla at Italia 90.
Germany appear to have unearthed a new super-sub in the prolific forward, whose dramatic late intervention made the difference against a determined Ivory Coast outfit still fighting for qualification.