Germany secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with goals from Kai Havertz and Jamal Musiala proving decisive. The match, played at the Allianz Arena in Munich, saw the Germans dominate possession but face a resilient Ivorian side that refused to back down.
First Half Dominance
Germany took the lead in the 23rd minute when Kai Havertz latched onto a through ball from Ilkay Gündogan and slotted past Ivorian goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangaré. The goal came after a period of sustained pressure from the hosts, who had 65% possession in the opening half-hour. Jamal Musiala doubled the lead just before halftime, curling a shot into the top corner from the edge of the box after a swift counter-attack.
Ivory Coast struggled to create clear chances in the first half, managing only two shots on target. Their best opportunity came from a free kick that was easily saved by German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen.
Second Half Fightback
The Elephants emerged with renewed energy after the break. In the 58th minute, Sébastien Haller pulled one back for Ivory Coast, heading home from a corner kick. The goal set up a tense final half-hour as the visitors pushed for an equalizer. Germany's defense, led by Antonio Rüdiger, held firm, with ter Stegen making a crucial save from a Franck Kessié shot in the 77th minute.
According to FIFA statistics, Germany completed 587 passes to Ivory Coast's 312, but the Ivorians had more shots on target in the second half (4 to 3). The win gives Germany three points in Group C, while Ivory Coast will look to bounce back in their next match against Japan.
