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Manchester United forward Amad could not lift the Ivory Coast to victory as they succumbed to a heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Germany in their second World Cup group match.

Contrary to pre-match expectations, the Ivory Coast took an early advantage in the 30th minute when Franck Kessie struck decisively after Amad’s initial effort was blocked inside the box.

The game remained finely balanced with both sides creating opportunities. In the 68th minute, substitute Deniz Undav latched onto Nadiem Amiri’s cross to level the score, bringing an end to Ivory Coast’s firm defensive stand.

The Elephants had chances to reclaim the lead, the best of which fell to Simon Adingra, who miscontrolled the ball at a vital moment, allowing a German defender to clear the danger.

Deep into stoppage time, Undav struck again, calmly finishing to seal the win for Germany and leave the Ivorian players devastated.

Amad had been his nation’s hero in their opening match against Ecuador, scoring a dramatic late winner that secured him a starting spot. However, he was unable to reproduce that decisive influence in this tightly fought contest.

The Manchester United winger featured for 75 minutes before being substituted for Simon Adingra.

Amad completed 17 of his 18 attempted passes, achieving a 94% pass accuracy, including two key passes.

He registered just one shot and missed a major scoring opportunity, though Kessie’s follow-up ensured the Ivory Coast took the lead at that stage.

The forward recorded 35 touches and attempted five dribbles, failing to complete any—a weakness he will look to improve before the team’s next World Cup fixture.

Defensively, Amad contributed with four interventions, winning both tackles he made and recovering possession four times. He engaged in nine ground duels but was successful only twice.

(Statistics sourced from Sofascore)

Amad and his Ivory Coast teammates will next face Curacao on Thursday in Philadelphia.

Featured image: Michael Reaves/Getty