Deniz Undav scored twice, sending Germany into knockouts

Deniz Undav emerged as the ultimate super-sub by netting a brilliant second-half brace to guide Germany into the round of 32 after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Toronto. This crucial win guarantees the four-time world champions a spot in the knockout phase for the first time since their legendary 2014 trophy win.

Franck Kessie initially put the African nation ahead in the 30th minute, silencing the German side after two of their earlier goals were disallowed. Manuel Neuer made history during this tense encounter, achieving his 21st World Cup appearance to become the most-capped goalkeeper in tournament history. Undav then turned the game around completely, leveling in the 64th minute before drilling home a dramatic winner in the 94th minute. His clutch performance also matched a 1990 milestone set by Roger Milla for total goal involvements coming off the bench. Football enthusiasts across Odisha, where interest in international tournaments has spiked through state-backed grassroots academies, stayed up late to watch this gripping Group E conclusion. Germany now leads the pool with six points, while Ivory Coast stays stuck on three points.

Image Courtesy: ANI