TORONTO — Germany secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Cote d’Ivoire in their World Cup Group E match on Saturday, advancing to the knockout stage for the first time since their 2014 championship. The win came courtesy of a second-half comeback sparked by substitute Deniz Undav, who scored twice after entering the game in the 60th minute.

Trailing 1-0 at the hour mark, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann made a triple substitution, including Undav, to inject fresh energy into his lineup. Undav, who had already scored in Germany’s opening 7-1 win over Curacao, capitalized with a volleyed equalizer in the 68th minute before netting the winning goal during stoppage time. His late strike came after a deft turn and shot that goalkeeper Yahia Fofana was unable to stop, securing the victory for the European side.

Cote d’Ivoire opened the scoring in the first half through Franck Kessie, capitalizing on a rebound following a cross from winger Amand Diallo. The West Africans, seeking their first-ever progression to the knockout rounds, pressed for a winner but were ultimately denied by resilient German defense and strong goalkeeping.

The match was marked by contention over two disallowed German goals. Aleksandar Pavlovic saw a potential opener ruled out for a foul in the 25th minute, and Jamal Musiala also had a goal chalked off for an infringement in the buildup. Despite dominating possession and generating multiple scoring opportunities, Germany entered halftime trailing 1-0, a rare situation for the historically strong side.

Nagelsmann praised his team’s resilience post-break, noting their willingness to take risks and demonstrate character. “In the end, we deservedly won it,” he said. “The boys invested a lot. I’m very happy for the whole team.” He acknowledged Undav’s impact off the bench and hinted at the possibility of starting the Stuttgart forward in Germany’s final group match against Ecuador.

For Cote d’Ivoire, the defeat dealt a significant blow to their hopes of reaching the knockout stage. Winger Amand Diallo expressed regret, saying, “We wanted to make history today, but I think everything was a little tight.” The team, which has scored in its last seven World Cup matches — a national record — will face Curacao in their final group game as they seek a path forward.

The win places Germany atop Group E with six points from two matches, while Cote d’Ivoire remains third with three points. Ecuador and Curacao played to a scoreless draw later Saturday in Kansas City. Germany will face Ecuador on Thursday in New Jersey to conclude the group phase, while Cote d’Ivoire meets Curacao in Philadelphia.

Notably absent for Cote d’Ivoire was striker Elye Wahi, who remains under investigation for alleged betting violations related to his prior tenure at Nice and was not cleared to play following a legal dispute over his entry into Canada.