Germany Secures Knockout Stage Spot with Dramatic Win Over Ivory Coast

Germany clinched a dramatic victory over Ivory Coast, thanks to a last-minute goal from Denis Undav, securing their spot in the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026. This win not only marks their return to the knockout rounds after years of disappointment but also ends an 11-year wait since their last World Cup triumph in 2014. The match was filled with tension, as Germany struggled initially but rallied in the second half to turn the game around. Discover how this thrilling encounter unfolded and what it means for Germany's World Cup journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 21, 2026, 05:01 IST

Germany Triumphs in Group D Clash

In an exhilarating match, Germany emerged victorious against Ivory Coast in their second Group D encounter, thanks to a last-minute goal from Denis Undav. This victory marks Germany's qualification for the Round of 32, joining the USA and Canada as the third team to advance. With two wins from two matches in the group stage, Germany has ended an 11-year drought, having last won the FIFA World Cup in 2014. This is also their first time reaching the knockout stage since that tournament, following disappointing exits in the group stages during the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

Denis Undav's Late Heroics Propel Germany Forward

After a commanding 7-1 victory over Curacao in their opening match, Germany entered the game against Ivory Coast with high hopes. However, they faced a tough challenge from a well-organized Ivorian defense. Despite controlling the game and creating several chances, it was Ivory Coast that took the lead. In the 30th minute, Amad Diallo's cross-turned-shot created chaos in the German defense, allowing Frank Kessie to score. Germany's first half was further marred by two disallowed goals, including a stunning save by Yahia Fofana on a header from Kai Havertz and a corner-kick goal by Aleksandar Pavlovic that was ruled out due to a foul on the goalkeeper.

Trailing at halftime, Germany intensified their efforts in the second half but struggled to find the equalizer until they made key substitutions. Their persistence paid off in the 68th minute when Deniz Undav finally scored. As the match neared its conclusion, both teams had chances to secure the win. Ivory Coast's Simon Adingra missed a crucial opportunity in the 88th minute, a mistake that proved costly. In stoppage time, Felix Nmecha delivered a precise pass to Undav inside the box, who skillfully controlled the ball and fired it past Fofana, sealing the victory for Germany.