Super substitute Deniz Undav scored a brace, sending Germany into the knockout stage

Facing a physically strong and tight-defending Cote d'Ivoire side, Germany struggled for most of the match. The African representative took the lead in the 30th minute thanks to a goal from midfielder Franck Kessié.

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann made a substitution in the 60th minute, bringing on striker Deniz Undav. The decision quickly paid off. Just eight minutes later, the Stuttgart player equalized to make it 1-1 for Germany.

As the match seemed destined for a draw, Undav struck again in the fourth minute of stoppage time, sealing a 2-1 victory. The 29-year-old's brace helped Germany overcome one of the biggest challenges in the group stage.

With six points from two matches, Germany tops Group E and has secured a spot in the round of 16. Cote d'Ivoire sits second with three points. In the opening match, Germany defeated Curaçao 7-1, while Cote d'Ivoire beat Ecuador 1-0.

Thanks to his latest two goals, Undav now leads the list of players with direct goal contributions at the World Cup, with three goals and two assists. In the final group stage match, Germany will face Ecuador in New Jersey (USA).