World Cup: Germany stages 94th-minute comeback to beat Ivory Coast and reach knockout stage

Four-time champions Germany staged a thrilling comeback, defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in the second round of the World Cup's Group E. Substitute striker Deniz Undav was the hero, scoring twice, with his decisive goal in the 94th minute securing a vital victory and a place in the knockout stage.

This win marks Germany's return to the elimination rounds of the World Cup for the first time since 2014, ending a streak of group stage exits in 2018 and 2022. The team now carries momentum into the next phase of the tournament.

The match saw Germany initially dominate possession and create chances. However, Ivory Coast took the lead in the 30th minute when captain Franck Kessié scored after a cross from Yan Diomande. Germany had two goals disallowed in the first half due to fouls in the build-up, including one by Kai Havertz and another involving Aleksandar Pavlović.

Undav's impact came in the second half. He equalized in the 63rd minute with a volley from a precise cross by fellow substitute Nadiem Amiri. The tension remained high until injury time, when Undav received a pass from Felix Nmecha, turned, and fired in the winning goal with his left foot, completing the dramatic turnaround.

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Undav scored twice, including the winning goal in the 94th minute.