Deniz Undav came off bench to fire Germany past Ivory Coast 2-1 at Toronto's BMO Field, securing nation's knockout berth since 2014. After Nadiem Amiri's long pass found Undav at the 68th minute, striker slotted home equaliser, then netted winner three minutes later. Nagelsmann praised his impact; Undav also scored in the 7-1 opening win over Curaçao, becoming fourth player to score tying and winning goals.

Manuel Neuer marked his 21st World Cup appearance, overtaking Hugo Lloris for most games by a goalkeeper. Germany endured a frustrating first half with two disallowed goals and lost defender Nico Schlotterbeck to a halftime injury, leaving coach Julian Nagelsmann uncertain about his availability for the final group fixture. The victory puts Germany level with co‑hosts Mexico and the United States on 6 points.

Germany will close Group E against Ecuador on Thursday, needing only a point to guarantee progression. Ivory Coast, still hunting their first knockout slot, face Curaçao simultaneously, with captain Franck Kessié’s early goal the lone highlight of a match that ended 1-0. Undav’s impact underscores bench depth as Germany heads into the last 32.