Kai Havertz has never played a World Cup knockout match. For a player of his caliber, representing one of international football’s most decorated nations, that fact has quietly sat in the background of his career. That changes now.
Germany secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout stages after a 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast, punching their ticket to the round of 16 with a game still remaining in the group stage. Havertz, who has been central to Germany’s attacking play throughout, made no secret of how much the moment means to him.
“I’m eager to win my first knockout match in a World Cup,” Havertz said, setting the tone for what comes next.
A tournament built on momentum
Havertz arrived at this tournament in form. He opened Germany’s group stage campaign by scoring twice in the match against Curaçao.
