Germany were forced to dig deep as Deniz Undav came off the bench to inspire a dramatic comeback win over the Ivory Coast at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side showed two very different faces during the match. Germany started with control and discipline, but were badly exposed in the middle of the game as the Ivory Coast grew in confidence, took the lead, and caused serious problems with their pace and direct play.
The key figure for Germany was Undav. Introduced with less than 30 minutes remaining, the Stuttgart forward gave Germany exactly what they were missing: movement, instinct and a ruthless touch in the box.
Undav levelled the match with a composed volley after reacting quickest inside the area, before striking again in stoppage time to complete a remarkable turnaround and hand Germany a victory that looked unlikely for long spells.
His impact also raised questions over Germany’s attacking balance. Leroy Sané again failed to deliver in a major tournament knockout-style moment. At the same time, Undav once more proved himself as a player capable of solving problems when the game becomes complicated.
There were also concerns over Captain Joshua Kimmich. Deployed again at right back, he struggled badly against the pace and confidence of Diomandé, who repeatedly attacked his side and played a major role in Ivory Coast’s opening goal.
Kimmich’s discomfort in the role was clear, with the German captain looking far from settled in a position that does not appear to bring the best out of him.
One positive for Germany was Jamal Musiala. Still working his way back to full sharpness after injury, the Bayern Munich star looked the clearest and most creative of Nagelsmann’s attacking players. His ability to carry the ball and unsettle defenders gave Germany their best moments before his substitution.
Germany got the win, but the performance left plenty of questions. Undav delivered the answer on the scoreboard, yet Nagelsmann will know his side must find more balance and control if they are to go deep in this tournament.
