Undav Saves Germany With Glorious Comeback From the Bench

Germany are through to the next round of the World Cup, but they needed a late comeback to break Ivorian hearts.

The African side shocked Germany in the first half when Franck Kessie scored his first-ever World Cup goal to put Ivory Coast ahead. At halftime, Germany were staring at a possible elimination scare while Ivory Coast were dreaming of qualification.

But football can be cruel.

Germany responded through Deniz Undav, who came off the bench and completely changed the game. The striker scored the equaliser before grabbing a second goal to complete the turnaround and secure a dramatic 2-1 victory.

According to tournament statistics, Undav now has three goals and two assists despite not starting a single World Cup match. The German forward has become one of the biggest surprises of the competition and is currently among the most productive players in the tournament.

For Ivory Coast, the pain was made even worse by a huge missed chance that could have secured qualification. The Elephants failed to convert a golden opportunity before Germany punished them at the other end.

The defeat was also emotional for Wilfried Singo, who was forced off injured and left the pitch in tears.

Despite the loss, there was one major positive for Ivory Coast.

Twenty-year-old midfielder Christ Inao Oulaï delivered an outstanding performance against one of the strongest teams in the tournament. The Trabzonspor youngster showed maturity beyond his years and was arguably Ivory Coast's best player on the night.

Germany will celebrate qualification, but there are concerns too.

According to Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, defender Nico Schlotterbeck is suspected to have suffered a ligament injury, raising fears that his World Cup could be over.

In the end, Germany survived.

Ivory Coast fought bravely, missed their chance, and paid the ultimate price.

That is the brutal reality of World Cup football.