Following their 7-1 victory over Curacao in the opening match, Germany was widely considered the stronger team. Opta's supercomputer also predicted a 44,2% chance of victory for Julian Nagelsmann's squad, compared to 30,1% for Ivory Coast. Despite facing significant challenges, Nagelsmann's team ultimately delivered for their fans.

Kai Havertz (left) falls after a tackle by Emmanuel Agbadou during the Germany versus Ivory Coast match in the second round of Group E, 2026 World Cup in Toronto on 20/6. Photo: AP

Germany began with their characteristic style, dominating possession in the early minutes. Kai Havertz had an opportunity just 12 seconds into the game but shot over the bar. Subsequently, goalkeeper Yahia Fofana emerged as a formidable obstacle for the four-time World Cup champions, expertly saving a dangerous header from Havertz.

However, Ivory Coast was far from outmatched. The African team proactively sought counter-attacking opportunities, leveraging the speed of Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo. From the outset, experts noted Diomande as a significant threat on the left wing, necessitating additional support for Joshua Kimmich from his teammates.

The atmosphere in the Toronto stands also contributed to the match's excitement. The stadium was nearly full, with synchronized clapping reminiscent of Euro 2016. On Olympic Island near the stadium, many fans watched the game from boats on the water.

A turning point arrived in the 30th minute. Diomande dribbled down the left wing and delivered a cross into the 5,5 m box. Nathaniel Brown blocked Amad's close-range shot, but the ball rebounded directly to captain Franck Kessie. The midfielder, playing for Al Ahli, seized the chance, striking the ball past Manuel Neuer from close range to open the scoring for Ivory Coast.

The goal significantly altered the match's dynamic. Ivory Coast players gained confidence, consistently applying pressure with strong challenges in midfield. Expert Aaron Moniz particularly praised 20-year-old defensive midfielder Inao Oulai, remarking that the player "escapes pressure exceptionally for his age". Meanwhile, columnist James Nalton suggested that Diomande demonstrated why Liverpool was interested in him in the transfer market.

Germany put the ball into the opponent's net two times in the first half, but both goals were disallowed. Pavlovic was judged to have fouled goalkeeper Fofana during a header from a corner kick, and Havertz's goal was nullified due to Musiala's earlier foul on Kossounou.

Recognizing his team's disadvantage in the second half, Nagelsmann made consecutive substitutions. In the 60th minute, he brought on Jamie Leweling, Denis Undav, and Nadiem Amiri. These changes quickly proved effective.

In the 68th minute, Amiri received the ball on the right wing and delivered an accurate cross into the penalty area. Havertz missed the ball, but Undav surged in to volley it with his left foot past Fofana, equalizing the score at 1-1 for Germany.

The 2026 World Cup continued to be a memorable tournament for the 29-year-old forward. Despite not starting in either of the first two matches, Undav contributed to 4 goals. Across all competitions, he has been directly involved in 12 goals in 11 appearances for the national team.

The equalizer somewhat revitalized Germany, but it was not enough to complete a comeback. The match gradually lost its rhythm after the second water break. Ivory Coast intentionally slowed the pace, controlled the game, and aimed to preserve the draw.

Late in the match, the African team suffered a setback when defender Wilfried Singo had to leave the field due to a hamstring injury. The player sat on the bench looking disappointed, even shedding tears after being substituted.

Ivory Coast had a chance to seal the match in the 89th minute but failed to capitalize. In stoppage time, Undav scored to secure three points for Germany and a spot in the round of 16.

Xuan Binh