Germany scored twice in the second half to beat Ivory Coast 2-1 in a dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match in Toronto on Saturday.
Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute through captain Franck Kessie. Yann Diomande delivered a low cross from the left side. Amad Diallo’s first shot was blocked, but Kessie reacted quickly and finished from close range.
Germany pushed for an equaliser before the break. The team had two goals ruled out in the first half. Aleksandar Pavlovic scored from a corner, but the referee called a foul on goalkeeper Yaya Fofana. Later, Kai Havertz found the net, but the goal was disallowed after a foul in the build-up.
Germany continued to attack after half time. Ivory Coast also created chances and looked dangerous on the counter attack.
The turning point came after Germany made several substitutions just after the hour mark. Deniz Undav was among the players introduced by coach Julian Nagelsmann.
The striker made an immediate impact. In the 68th minute, Nadine Amiri sent a fine cross into the box. Undav lost his marker and scored from close range to level the match.
Both teams searched for a winner in the closing stages. Ivory Coast came close when Nicolas Pepe set up Simon Adingra inside the box. However, Adingra took an extra touch and the chance was lost.
Germany also had opportunities through Nathaniel Brown and Amiri, but Fofana kept the scores level.
The winning goal arrived deep into stoppage time. Felix Nmecha played a brilliant pass through the Ivory Coast defence. Undav controlled the ball well and calmly finished past Fofana in the 94th minute.
The late goal completed Germany’s comeback and secured a valuable victory.
Germany now has six points from two matches after following its 7-1 win over Curacao with another three points.
Ivory Coast suffered a painful defeat after leading for much of the match. Undav finished the night as Germany’s hero with both goals.
