Germany face World Cup doubt as Nico Schlotterbeck injured

Germany secured a 2‑1 victory over Ivory Coast in their second Group E World Cup match, but central defender Nico Schlotterbeck exited with an ankle injury that may end his tournament. The win, clinched by substitute Undav’s second goal in stoppage time, left Germany atop the group with a three‑point lead. Ivory Coast took the lead after thirty minutes when Kessié scored. Germany equalised in the 68th minute through Undav, who later added a decisive second strike to seal the win. The victory placed Germany first in Group E, three points ahead of Ivory Coast. Ecuador and Curaçao each sit on one point, occupying third and fourth places respectively.

Schlotterbeck injury raises World Cup exit fears for Germany defender

The 26‑year‑old Schlotterbeck has earned 28 caps for the German national team. He appeared in 37 Bundesliga matches for Dortmund last season, helping the club finish second. Under coach Julian Nagelsmann, Schlotterbeck forms the central defensive duo with Jonathan Tah, keeping Antonio Rüdiger on the bench. Real Madrid have been reported to pursue Schlotterbeck’s signature.

Germany beats Ivory Coast 2-1 to reach World Cup knockouts

Nagelsmann said after the game, “It does not look good.” noted that Schlotterbeck stepped off the plane without an obvious limp, and an additional ankle scan is required for clarification.