Undav's brace wins for Germany, yet Ivory Coast coach loses job

Deniz Undav’s two goals after coming on as a substitute secured a 2‑1 victory for Germany over Ivory Coast in their World Cup group‑stage clash in the tournament, a decisive moment that sparked controversy and ultimately preceded the Ivorian coach’s dismissal.

The encounter was the second meeting between the two sides in the World Cup group stage, taking place roughly six weeks after their opening game. Undav, who entered the match from the bench, delivered a brace that lifted the DFB side to a 2‑1 win.

Although the win gave Germany three points, it proved ultimately meaningless as both nations later bowed out in the round of 32. Ivory Coast coach Emerse Faé criticised the German side for a perceived lack of fairness, stating, "We look to nations like this as an example in order to keep developing, and I was a little disappointed by the lack of fair play from this German team," after the final whistle.

Germany’s tournament ended with a defeat to Paraguay, while Ivory Coast were eliminated after losing to Norway. Both teams were forced to return home following their early exits.

On Saturday morning the Ivorian Football Federation confirmed that coach Emerse Faé’s contract would not be renewed. "The executive committee of the Ivorian Football Federation sincerely thanks Mr. Emerse Faé for his commitment, professionalism, and the services he rendered as head coach of the senior national team throughout his collaboration with the federation," the press release read.

The 42‑year‑old Faé therefore departs the role with no successor named yet. The federation has yet to announce who will take over the senior national team.

For nations with such high ambitions, the early departures underscored that a solitary group‑stage victory was insufficient to meet expectations.