Germany pulled off a dramatic 2-1 victory against Côte d’Ivoire on Saturday in Toronto, securing their place in the World Cup round of 16. The match, played in a festive atmosphere at the stadium, saw both teams trade blows until the very end.

Deniz Undav, who had earlier equalised, struck the winner deep into stoppage time (90+4), completing a comeback that left the Ivorians heartbroken. Côte d’Ivoire could have sealed the game when Simon Adingra raced clear on goal in the 88th minute but failed to beat Manuel Neuer.

Singo forced off late

Côte d’Ivoire opened the scoring in the 30th minute through captain Frank Kessié, who volleyed home after a cross from Yan Diomandé and a deflected effort from Amad Diallo. The Elephants had used a cooling break to good effect, but Germany gradually grew into the contest.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side equalised in the 68th minute when substitute Nadiem Amiri set up Undav for a close-range finish. The Germans then pushed for a winner, and it came in added time as Undav fired home from inside the box.

The Ivorian defence, marshalled by Wilfried Singo, had been impressive until the defender limped off with an injury in the 80th minute. His absence proved costly as Germany found more space.

Earlier, goalkeeper Yahia Fofana made a brilliant save to deny Kai Havertz’s header, and Odilon Kossounou cleared a goal-bound shot from Felix Nmecha off the line. Côte d’Ivoire’s counter-attacks, led by the powerful Ange-Yoan Bonny and the lively Yan Diomandé, kept Germany on edge throughout.

Despite the defeat, Emerse Faé’s side showed great character and physicality. They will now need to beat Curaçao to advance, a task that looks well within their reach given their performance against Germany.