India, June 21 -- Midfield powerhouse Franck Kessie turned the script completely at Toronto Stadium on June 20 .In a blockbuster Group E match with high-stakes tension, the Ivory Coast captain rose to the occasion and scored his first-ever career goal at a FIFA World Cup, firing the underdogs into a stunning lead over four-time global champions Germany.

The moment of truth occurred in the 30th minute of play. Dynamic forward Yan Diomande started a lightning-quick counter attack, drifting past a trailing German midfield to send in a dangerous low cross into the penalty area. His first close-range effort was repelled amid a frantic scramble in front of goal but Kessie was alive to the rebound. The 29-year-old midfielder showed elite positi...