Kai Havertz did not have the best afternoon in Toronto as the striker struggled in Germany’s 2-1 World Cup win over the Ivory Coast.
Julian Nagelsmann’s team somehow managed to secure three points against the African nation, coming from behind to win.
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Denis Undav came off the bench to score a brace, including a stoppage-time winner, as the Germans became just the second team at the 2026 World Cup to win from a losing position.
However, for the Arsenal attacker, it was a tough evening at the BMO Field, and the local media were not particularly impressed by his display.
German media left unhappy with Kai Havertz’s performance vs Ivory Coast
The German media were not very unhappy with Kai Havertz’s performance against the Ivory Coast, as the Arsenal striker struggled.
Havertz managed three attempts at goal and got just one on target; meanwhile, he lost possession on 16 occasions.
Undav aside, Germany’s attackers all looked well off the pace against the Ivory Coast, and the local media have been assessing their performances, with Havertz getting a low Grade from each.
The striker also managed 45 touches versus the Ivory Coast and completed just 21 passes, eventually being subbed off after 85 minutes.
- Ran rated his performance a 3: “He had some good chances in and around the opponent’s penalty area, but luck wasn’t on his side. He worked tirelessly against the strong Ivorian centre-backs, but Germany’s number nine didn’t manage to score today.”
- Frankfurter Rundschau also gave him a Grade 3 rating and wrote: “He was constantly targeted in the centre and had the most shots of all German attackers. However, the striker failed to capitalise on his teammates’ assists.”
- BILD were even less impressed by the Arsenal attacker and gave him a Grade 4: “His first volley after just a few seconds went over the bar (1′). Ten minutes later, Ivory Coast goalkeeper Fofana had to make a difficult save to tip his header around the post. He got another header after a Kimmich cross because Fofana had misjudged the initial clearance. He was therefore somewhat surprised and headed wide.”
Havertz has little competition for his place in the team, with Nick Woltemade the other striker taken to the World Cup by Germany.
Kai Havertz has a point to prove at Arsenal this summer
Arsenal are looking to sign another striker this summer, and given the German’s inconsistencies, that probably wouldn’t be the worst idea.
Julian Alvarez is a key target for Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta both big fans of the Argentine striker.
Havertz will be eager to prove why he should remain the Gunners’ number one striker next term, although he will need to do much better in the next game against Ecuador.
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