Germany secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in their World Cup group stage match on Saturday, ensuring their progression to the knockout rounds for the first time since 2014. The win, decided in extra time by a second goal from substitute Deniz Undav, ended a prolonged period of World Cup frustration for the four-time champions, who had failed to advance beyond the group stage in both the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

Despite the late triumph, Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann remained cautious about celebrating their advancement. When asked if making it to the next round was a cause for celebration, Nagelsmann emphasized the team’s focus on future challenges: “We have high ambitions. The most important topic for us is to focus on the next step.”

The match saw Ivory Coast take an early lead through Franck Kessie in the first half. However, Germany intensified their efforts in the second half, applying sustained pressure that the African side struggled to counter. Undav’s introduction proved decisive, as he scored both goals for Germany, with his second strike in extra time securing the victory.

Nagelsmann expressed particular satisfaction with Undav’s performance, suggesting the forward could be considered for a starting role in Germany’s upcoming group game against Ecuador. The coach hailed the result as a positive development but maintained a measured outlook on the team’s overall objectives at the tournament.

With this win, Germany has regained momentum after consecutive disappointing exits, positioning themselves to contend for further success as the World Cup progresses.