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Germany national football team maintained their perfect start to the FIFA World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast national football team in Toronto.
The Germans appeared destined to drop points for long stretches of the match before an inspired performance from Deniz Undav rescued all three points with a stunning stoppage-time winner.
Ivory Coast Shock the Germans
The African side produced an excellent first-half display and stunned Germany by taking the lead through Franck Kessié.
Kessié’s goal rewarded a disciplined tactical approach that saw Ivory Coast defend compactly while remaining dangerous on the counterattack.
Germany struggled to find rhythm against the well-organized defensive block and entered the second half facing a difficult challenge.
Germany Search for an Equalizer
Despite dominating possession, Germany found it difficult to break through the resilient Ivorian defense.
The pressure eventually paid off in the 68th minute when Undav finally found the breakthrough, bringing Germany level and reigniting their hopes of victory.
The equalizer shifted momentum heavily in Germany’s favor as they pushed relentlessly for a winner.
Undav Delivers Late Drama
With the match appearing headed for a draw, Germany continued attacking deep into stoppage time.
Their persistence was rewarded in the 94th minute when Undav produced a moment of brilliance, firing home a dramatic winner that sent German supporters into celebration.
The late strike completed an impressive individual performance and secured a crucial three points.
Germany Remain Perfect in Group E
The victory keeps Germany’s record intact and strengthens their position at the top of Group E.
While the performance exposed some vulnerabilities against a disciplined opponent, the ability to find a result under pressure will give the four-time world champions confidence moving forward.
Ivory Coast, meanwhile, earned plenty of respect despite leaving empty-handed after a courageous display.
Match Highlights
- Tournament: 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Group: Group E
- Venue: Toronto
- Result: Germany 2-1 Ivory Coast
- Germany goals: Deniz Undav (68′, 90+4′)
- Ivory Coast goal: Franck Kessié
- Winning goal scored in stoppage time
Final Takeaway
Germany were pushed to the limit by a determined Ivory Coast side but ultimately escaped with a dramatic 2-1 victory thanks to Deniz Undav’s late heroics. His brace, capped by a 94th-minute winner, keeps Germany perfect in Group E and reinforces their status as one of the strongest contenders in the tournament.
