Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.
Julian Nagelsmann feels Deniz Undav is well suited to a super-sub role for Germany, as he hailed the striker as a “born goalscorer”.
Undav came off the bench to score both of Germany’s goals in their 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast at Toronto Stadium.
Two substitutes combined as Nadiem Amiri crossed in for Undav to tuck in from close range in the 69th minute, cancelling out Franck Kessie’s first-half opener.
Undav then took his tally for the tournament to three goals when he took in Felix Nmecha’s incisive pass and finished brilliantly to clinch the points, and seal Germany’s progress to the knockouts, deep in stoppage time.
The Stuttgart forward has been directly involved in five goals as a substitute across Germany’s two World Cup games (three goals, two assists) – the joint most at a single edition of the competition since 1966 (alongside Roger Milla in 1990).
But that does not mean Nagelsmann will necessarily use him from the start.
“Deniz scored two outstanding goals. He is a born goalscorer and finished both chances instinctively,” Nagelsmann said.
“He knows where the goal is, and the winner was incredible. It was an emotional one.
“It’s possible [he could play from the start]. But he’s doing very well in his current role. It can go in both directions.”
Five goal involvements off the bench.
Deniz Undav has ALREADY matched Roger Milla’s 1990 record for the most goal involvements as a substitute at a single World Cup since 1966. pic.twitter.com/20X64wQLu7
— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) June 20, 2026
Germany’s victory sent them to the top of Group E, and with Ecuador only able to draw against Curacao, it means Nagelsmann’s team are sure of their place at the top of the pile.
“Every player could sense how important they are for us today – the whole team earned that victory,” Nagelsmann added.
“The contest became very open towards the end, but that’s normal, because we wanted to win. The next step is to beat Ecuador and then deal with each challenge as it comes.”
Undav is the first player to score on both of his first two World Cup appearances for Germany since Miroslav Klose in 2002.
“When I came on, I knew I had to make the most of any chances off the bat,” he said.
“We certainly enjoyed a slice of fortune as well. A lot is falling my way at the moment. I’m trying to keep this run going and to enjoy it.
“The team and the coaching staff are making things very easy for me right now, and that gives me confidence heading into the coming fixtures.”
Ivory Coast gave a fantastic account of themselves, and could easily have gone 2-0 up early in the second half, when they were dominant prior to Nagelsmann making three substitutions on the hour.
“It was a high-quality game with top spot in the group on the line,” said Ivory Coast coach Emerse Fae.
“We played well, but fine margins decided the game. We are still lacking a little experience in that regard. When you play against the top teams, there is always a chance you will concede.”
One blow for Germany was an injury sustained by centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck, with Nagelsmann confirming the issue appears to be a serious one.
“Nico is suspected to have sustained a ligament injury. It’s not looking good,” Nagelsmann said.
UEFA Women’s Champions League News
‘Bring it on’ – Bright sets sights on glory after Chelsea’s Champions League comeback
Premier League News
‘Best is yet to come’ for Fulham, says Silva
UEFA Conference League News
‘Chelsea fans have to trust us’ – Maresca issues rallying cry to Blues’ faithful
UEFA Conference League News
‘Chelsea are back’ if they win Europa Conference League, Maresca insists
UEFA Nations League News
‘Every Portugal player’ wants to see Ronaldo win World Cup – Dalot
Premier League News
‘Every point is expensive’ in the Premier League, says Iraola
We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
