Germany deserved comeback win over Ivory Coast, says coach Nagelsmann

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann declared his team's 2-1 comeback victory against Ivory Coast as deserved, marking their first World Cup knockout-stage appearance since winning the title in 2014.

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I am very happy that we won the match. In the end, we deservedly won it.

"I am very happy that we won the match. In the end, we deservedly won it," Nagelsmann told reporters. He described the win as emotional, praising the significant effort from his entire squad. "The boys invested a lot. I'm very happy for the whole team because everyone knew they (were) important. Every player that came into the match (was) important."

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The boys invested a lot. I'm very happy for the whole team because everyone knew they (were) important. Every player that came into the match (was) important.

Substitute Deniz Undav emerged as the hero, netting two goals in the second half to overturn Ivory Coast's lead and propel Germany into the next round. Nagelsmann lauded Undav's ability to perform immediately upon entering the game, suggesting his impactful performance might earn him a starting spot in the final group match against Ecuador.

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When (the game) opens up he's really great at moving around

Despite the victory, Nagelsmann admitted dissatisfaction with the team's control at the start of the game and in the initial 10 minutes after halftime, which prompted a triple substitution that ultimately proved decisive. He noted the team took more risks as the game progressed. While Germany advances, Nagelsmann stressed the importance of focusing on the upcoming match against Ecuador, stating, "We have high ambitions but I think every team that takes part in the World Cup has high ambitions. It's always important to focus on the next steps."

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Deniz is nobody who needs to be prepared; he can jump in right away.