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- Undav saves Germany late as Ivory Coast heartbreak ends in World Cup 2026 defeat
Undav saves Germany late as Ivory Coast heartbreak ends in World Cup 2026 defeat
Just when Germany looked set to drop crucial points, Deniz Undav stepped up to rescue the four-time world champions.
Just when Germany looked set to drop crucial points, Deniz Undav stepped up to rescue the four-time world champions.
The striker scored twice, including a dramatic winner in the 90+4th minute, to complete a 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast and strengthen Germany's grip on the top spot in Group E at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The match was also historic for Manuel Neuer, who made his 21st World Cup appearance to become the goalkeeper with the most matches played in tournament history.
Kessié punished Germany's defensive issues
Germany controlled possession for long stretches of the first half but struggled to turn that dominance into goals.
Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala threatened early, only to be denied by an impressive Yahia Fofana.
Meanwhile, Ivory Coast grew into the match through its pace and direct attacking play. Yan Diomande caused constant problems down the left flank, Amad Diallo tested Germany's defense and Ange-Yoan Bonny added movement in the final third.
The breakthrough arrived in the 29th minute.
Following a move started by Diomande, the loose ball fell kindly to Franck Kessié, who struck powerfully to give Ivory Coast a deserved 1-0 lead.
Germany's substitutes changed the game
Julian Nagelsmann responded by reshaping his side.
Antonio Rüdiger replaced Nico Schlotterbeck before Germany introduced Nadiem Amiri, Jamie Leweling and Deniz Undav to inject fresh energy into the attack.
The changes paid off.
In the 68th minute, Amiri delivered a precise cross and Undav controlled brilliantly before finishing emphatically to level the score.
Undav breaks Ivory Coast hearts
Both teams had chances to win after the equalizer.
Yahia Fofana produced outstanding saves to deny Nathaniel Brown and Amiri, while Simon Adingra and Nicolas Pépé threatened at the other end.
Then, just as the match appeared destined to end in a draw, Germany found the decisive moment.
In stoppage time, a marking error from Emmanuel Agbadou allowed Undav to strike again and complete a dramatic comeback victory.
Beyond the result, Manuel Neuer etched his name further into World Cup history.
The German captain made his 21st World Cup appearance, the most ever by a goalkeeper in the tournament.
