Super-sub Deniz Undav scored twice off the bench as Germany came from behind to beat the Ivory Coast 2-1 in their second group stage match of the World Cup, ensuring they remained atop Group I.
Hard-Fought Victory in Toronto
Germany opened their World Cup campaign with an emphatic 7-1 defeat of Curacao, but were made to work much harder for their victory in Toronto. Franck Kessie opened the scoring before the break against the run of play, tapping home after Amad Diallo's close-range effort was saved, leaving Julian Nagelsmann to make changes at the break.
Nagelsmann's Tactical Changes Pay Off
Nagelsmann made four substitutions before the hour mark and they had a clear effect as Nadiem Amiri assisted Undav's equaliser. Both sides enjoyed plentiful chances through a frantic final 20 minutes and Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana made several big saves, but Undav finally beat him in the fourth of six added minutes to secure the dramatic comeback victory.
Group I Implications
The win keeps Germany top of Group I with six points, while Ivory Coast remain on three points. Germany will look to continue their winning form in their next group stage match.
