Germany and Ivory Coast meet tonight at 11 pm in Toronto knowing that a victory could secure their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with one group match still remaining.
Germany enter the contest after producing one of the tournament’s most emphatic performances, dismantling debutants Curaçao 7-1 to underline their credentials as serious contenders.
The victory extended their winning streak to ten matches and moved them to the top of the World Cup’s all-time scoring charts with 239 goals.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side have rediscovered the attacking confidence that has often defined German football, scoring three or more goals in six of their last ten victories.
However, defensive vulnerabilities remain a concern, with Germany failing to record a clean sheet in their last seven World Cup matches, their longest such run since 1970.
Still, their current form has placed them in a powerful position as they attempt to avoid another early exit after consecutive group-stage disappointments in previous editions.
Ivory Coast also began their campaign with victory, edging Ecuador 1-0 to claim a fourth consecutive international win.
The Elephants have shown they can compete with elite opposition, having defeated three teams ranked inside FIFA’s top 25 during that run.
The African side have never reached the knockout stages of the World Cup, but the expanded tournament format has increased their hopes of making history.
Even a defeat against Germany would not necessarily end their chances, with their final group fixture coming against debutants Curaçao.
The only previous meeting between Germany and Ivory Coast ended in a 2-2 friendly draw in 2009.
Germany have historically performed well against African opposition at the World Cup, losing just once in seven such encounters, while Ivory Coast have managed only one victory against European opponents at the finals.
Germany’s Kai Havertz was among the stars of their opening victory, scoring twice against Curaçao and extending his record of scoring at each of his country’s last four major tournaments.
Ivory Coast will look towards Guéla Doué, who has contributed a goal and assist across his last two international appearances.
Neither side reported significant injury problems following their opening matches, while Ivory Coast will welcome back Elye Wahi after his delayed arrival.
