KATHMANDU, June 21: Germany booked a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast, while the Netherlands boosted their last 32 hopes with a dominant 5-1 win over Sweden on Saturday.
In Toronto, substitute Deniz Undav scored twice in the second half as Germany recovered from an early setback to secure their second straight win in Group E. The result sends the four-time world champions into the knockout stage for the first time since lifting the World Cup in 2014.
Netherlands reach first World Cup final with extra-time rocket
Ivory Coast had taken the lead through Franck Kessie, who converted a rebound after a move initiated by Yan Diomande and Amad Diallo. Germany thought they had equalized twice before the break, but both goals were ruled out for fouls in the buildup.
Despite the frustration, Germany maintained control and eventually found a way through. Undav leveled in the 68th minute with a composed volley before completing the turnaround with a clinical finish later in the match. The striker has now scored nine goals in his last eight appearances.
Ivory Coast pushed for an equalizer late on, but Germany held firm to seal the victory. Germany top Group E with six points from two matches, while Ivory Coast remain on three points. Germany will face Ecuador in their final group game, while Ivory Coast take on Curacao.
In Group F, the Netherlands produced one of the most emphatic performances of the tournament, crushing Sweden 5-1 in Houston.
Brian Brobbey set the tone with two early goals in the sixth and 17th minutes. The Dutch extended their lead after the break through Cody Gakpo, who struck twice, including one from a Crysencio Summerville assist.
Sweden briefly threatened a comeback when Anthony Elanga pulled one back in the 59th minute, but the Dutch quickly regained control. Summerville capped the rout in the 89th minute from a Memphis Depay pass.
The victory lifted the Netherlands to the top of Group F with four points from two matches after an opening draw against Japan. Sweden, who suffered their first defeat of the tournament, remain second with three points.
With one match remaining, the Dutch are well placed to advance to the knockout stage, while Sweden still have work to do to secure qualification.
