Undav’s stoppage-time strike seals Germany’s top spot in World Cup group at Ivory Coast’s expense
Germany secured top spot in Group E of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast, sealed by an injury-time goal from Undav that confirmed the European side’s place in the knockout rounds.
Comeback win on the final matchday
Ivory Coast appeared poised to upset the four-time world champions after taking the lead during the group-stage encounter. Germany, however, responded in the second half to draw level before Undav completed the turnaround deep into stoppage time, sparking celebrations among the German players and supporters. The result ensured Die Mannschaft finished the group phase with the maximum return from the decisive fixture.
Germany through to the knockout stage
The victory not only lifted Germany to the summit of Group E but also guaranteed their progression to the next phase of the tournament. The performance offered a measure of redemption after a World Cup cycle in which Germany’s pedigree has rarely been in question, even when their form has wavered. Reaching the knockout rounds remains the minimum expectation for one of the most decorated national teams in the history of the competition.
Ivory Coast’s tournament ends short
For Ivory Coast, the defeat brought an end to their World Cup campaign, with the West African side unable to translate a strong opening period into a result against one of the tournament favourites. The Ivorians had arrived at the finals with a talented generation of players and will reflect on a campaign that promised moments of quality but fell short of the benchmark required to advance from a competitive group.
Looking ahead
Germany now turn their attention to the knockout stage, where margins tighten and individual quality often proves decisive. Undav’s late intervention, the kind of moment that defines major tournaments, will give the squad momentum heading into the next phase. For Ivory Coast, attention will shift to building on the experience gathered in the United States as preparations begin for future competitions.
Source: Al Jazeera — read the original report.
