Germany's comeback magic struck again. Deniz Undav scored in the 94th minute to seal a thrilling 2-1 win over Ivory Coast on Saturday.
The four-time world champions advanced to the knockout round with their second straight victory. They remain unbeaten in Group E with six points.
Ivory Coast shocked the Germans early. Captain Franck Kessie fired them ahead in the 30th minute, catching the favored Europeans off guard.
Germany pressed for an equalizer before halftime. Referee whistled down what looked like their opening goal, calling a foul on Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana.
The pressure mounted in the second half. Kai Havertz saw another effort chalked off as Julian Nagelsmann's team hunted the breakthrough.
Undav finally found it midway through the second period. He volleyed home a crisp cross from Nadiem Amiri to level the match at 1-1.
Both sides sensed opportunity as regulation time wound down. Germany controlled possession and territory in the closing minutes.
The decisive moment came deep in stoppage time. Felix Nmecha slipped a pass to Undav, who finished clinically past Fofana to spark wild celebrations.
It was vintage Undav from the bench. The striker has now scored once and laid on two assists since entering Germany's 7-1 demolition of Curaçao last week.
Manuel Neuer and his veteran backline held firm when it counted. Their experience proved crucial in seeing out a tense final stretch.
Ivory Coast remain alive but face an uphill battle. They sit on three points with only their final group match left to play.
Ecuador and Curaçao clash later Saturday in the other Group E fixture. That result will determine who claims the remaining qualification spot alongside Germany.
For now, the Germans have done their job. They'll await their next opponents from the knockout round draw.
