Germany achieved one of the goals that had become an unfinished task over the past decade: reaching the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup once again. Julian Nagelsmann’s side secured qualification for the next round after defeating Ivory Coast 2-1.

This marks the end of an unexpected streak that lasted through two consecutive World Cup editions.

The Burden of the 2018 and 2022 Eliminations

After winning the world title in Brazil 2014, Germany arrived at Russia 2018 as one of the tournament favorites. However, they were eliminated in the group stage after defeats to Mexico and South Korea, in one of the biggest surprises in World Cup history.

The same situation occurred in Qatar 2022. Despite having a competitive squad, the Germans failed to advance to the knockout rounds and once again exited the tournament earlier than expected.

The Victory That Secured Germany’s Return

The match against Ivory Coast seemed to be slipping away when the African side took the lead. However, Deniz Undav emerged as the hero of the night, scoring both goals that completed Germany’s comeback and sealed qualification.

For the first time since Brazil 2014, Germany will once again compete in the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup.

An Important Step, But Not the Last

Qualifying for the next round represents relief for Germany, but it also offers an opportunity to prove that the disappointments of the last two World Cups are firmly in the past.

Twelve years after their last advancement from the group stage, Germany is back where it belongs: competing in the decisive rounds of a World Cup.