Who is Franck Kessie? Meet experienced midfielder whose first-half goal gave Ivory Coast early lead over Germany at World Cup

Germany have endured a World Cup nightmare since winning their fourth title in 2014.

Die Mannschaft bowed out at the group stage in 2018 and 2022, to widespread derision in their homeland.

The 2026 World Cup should be different after Julian Nagelsmann's side teed off on minnows Curacao to claim an opening 7-1 win in Group E.

But game two in Toronto against the Ivory Coast became more of a struggle when a face familiar to European football aficionados gave the African nation a first-half lead.

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Who is Franck Kessie?

Frank Kessie is an experienced central midfielder who boasts 102 caps for the Ivory Coast.

After starting his career in his homeland with Stella Club, Kessie moved to Europe in 2015 when he joined Serie A club Atalanta.

Kessie truly came to prominence in Italy's top division when he moved to AC Milan in 2017 on an initial two-year loan deal.

He spent five years with the Rossoneri, signing off with a Scudetto triumph in 2021/22, before he joined La Liga giants Barcelona.

MORE: Germany vs. Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup, live updates

Franck Kessie goal vs. Germany

With half an hour on the clock at BMO Field, highly rated winger Yan Diomande attacked the Germany backline and drilled in a low cross from the left wing.

Amad Diallo struggled to get the ball out of his feet, but when the Manchester United star had his attempt blocked on the line, Kessie was on hand for an instinctive first-time finish.

It was Kessie's 15th goal for his country and first at the World Cup.

Which club does Franck Kessie play for?

Kessie plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Ahli, who he joined in 2023 after one year at Barcelona. He has won two AFC Champions League titles with Al-Ahli.

MORE: Who is Yan Diomande? Meet Ivory Coast's 19-year-old soccer World Cup standout linked to Liverpool

How old is Franck Kessie?

Kessie should still have a few years left at the elite level as his is 29 years of age. He turns 30 on December 16 this year.