Germany vs Ivory Coast Preview: Prediction, Team News and Lineups | FIFA World Cup 2026

Germany will look to continue their perfect start to the FIFA World Cup 2026 when they face Ivory Coast in a fascinating Group E showdown on Saturday.

Julian Nagelsmann's side produced the most dominant performance of the tournament so far on matchday one, dismantling World Cup debutants Curacao 7-1 in Houston. The four-time world champions showcased their attacking firepower as Felix Nmecha, Kai Havertz, Nico Schlotterbeck, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav all found the net.

Although Curacao briefly stunned Germany with a historic equaliser, Die Mannschaft quickly regained control and cruised to a convincing victory. The result extended Germany's winning streak to ten matches in all competitions, highlighting their status as one of the favorites to challenge for the trophy.

A victory over Ivory Coast could secure top spot in Group E depending on the outcome of Ecuador's match against Curacao. However, Germany will be wary of a dangerous Ivory Coast side that also started the tournament with three points.

Despite their attacking brilliance, Germany have shown defensive vulnerabilities in recent months. Nagelsmann's men have conceded in four of their last five matches and have failed to keep a clean sheet in seven consecutive World Cup games dating back to their 2014 final triumph.

Ivory Coast arrive full of confidence after securing a dramatic 1-0 victory over Ecuador in their opening fixture. The Elephants needed a late moment of inspiration from Amad Diallo, whose stunning 90th-minute strike ended Ecuador's impressive 19-match unbeaten run.

That victory continued Ivory Coast's strong recent form, with Emerse Fae's side winning five of their last six matches in all competitions. Their run includes an impressive 2-1 friendly victory over France earlier this month.

The African nation is now well-positioned to reach the World Cup knockout stages for the first time in its history. A positive result against Germany would significantly strengthen their qualification hopes heading into the final group game.

Historically, Ivory Coast have found European opposition difficult to overcome at World Cups, winning only one of their previous four such encounters. Germany, meanwhile, have suffered just one defeat against African teams on football's biggest stage.

Team News

Germany

Nagelsmann has several selection decisions to make following the outstanding performance against Curacao. Deniz Undav made a huge impact off the bench, scoring once and providing two assists, and could be rewarded with a starting role.

However, Germany's attacking quartet of Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Kai Havertz is expected to remain unchanged. Havertz continues to deliver on the international stage and has now scored at each of the last four major tournaments.

Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is set to make another appearance between the posts, while Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Nico Schlotterbeck and Nathaniel Brown should continue in defense.

Ivory Coast

Amad Diallo's match-winning goal against Ecuador has increased his chances of starting this weekend. The Manchester United winger has become one of Ivory Coast's most influential attacking players, scoring six international goals since October.

Ange-Yoan Bonny, Oumar Diakite and Evann Guessand are all competing for places in the forward line, while Bazoumana Toure is expected to retain his spot after another energetic display.

Young winger Yan Diomande was one of the standout performers of the opening round, producing an exceptional all-round display against Ecuador. The 19-year-old will once again be a key player for the Elephants.

Key Battle

The midfield contest between Moises? (No, Germany match) Actually Kessie and Sangare against Musiala and Wirtz could determine the outcome. If Ivory Coast can disrupt Germany's rhythm and limit the influence of Musiala and Wirtz, they may create opportunities on the counterattack through Diallo's pace.

Prediction

Ivory Coast possess enough quality and confidence to trouble Germany, particularly on the break. However, Germany's attacking depth, creativity and current form make them favorites to secure another victory.

The Elephants should be more competitive than Curacao, but Germany's firepower is expected to prove decisive.

Prediction: Germany 3-1 Ivory Coast