Undav's Late Double Seals Germany's World Cup Knockout Berth

Deniz Undav's late heroics secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory for Germany against Ivory Coast, propelling them into the World Cup knockout stages. The substitute striker scored in the 94th minute to clinch the win, after earlier equalizing with a volley.

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Germany put on a show in their opener as they delivered a thrashing of Curacao for the biggest win of the opening round. But an exciting Ivory Coast side, brimming with the confidence from a late victory against Ecuador in their opener, posed an altogether different challenge.

Ivory Coast had taken the lead through captain Franck Kessie, set up by a dynamic run from Yan Diomande. The Ivorians, who had started the tournament with a victory over Ecuador, were the better side for much of the first half, causing problems for the German defense.

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Diomande, linked with a move to Liverpool, showcased his pace and raw ability on the left flank for the Ivorians, while Manchester United winger Amad, Kessie and 20-year-old Oulai all caused problems for the German defence that has now kept just one clean sheet in its past six matches.

However, Germany's fortunes turned when coach Nagelsmann introduced Undav, along with Jamie Leweling and Nadiem Amiri, in the 60th minute. The substitutions paid off quickly, as Amiri assisted Undav's equalizer just eight minutes later. Undav then completed the comeback with his second goal, bringing his impressive tally to nine goals in 11 international appearances.

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Ultimately though, Germany were rescued by the quality of their substitutes. With his side trailing 1-0, Nagelsmann made a triple change in the 60th minute, bringing on Jamie Leweling, Amiri and Undav – with the latter duo combining for the equaliser only eight minutes later.

Despite the heartbreaking last-gasp defeat, Ivory Coast can draw confidence from their performance. The team remains well-positioned to advance to the knockout stages, a feat that has eluded some of their legendary players.

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Undav then struck a second to take his tally to nine goals in just 11 appearances for Germany and make his case for a starting spot again, helping his side put embarrassing group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022 behind them.