Deniz Undav came off the bench and completely changed Germany’s World Cup trajectory. Two goals in a comeback win over Ivory Coast. That’s the headline.
The 2-1 result in Toronto secured Germany’s spot in the knockout stage for the first time since they won it all in 2014. And it raises an obvious question: does Undav start now?
Julian Nagelsmann basically admitted the obvious after the game. “Maybe he can start next time,” the Germany coach said. That’s not a hard confirmation but it’s about as close as you get this early in a tournament.
Undav has nine goals in his last eight matches now. That’s absurd. He leveled the score in the 68th minute with a controlled volley and then won it in stoppage time with a turn-and-fire that left Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana helpless.
The first half was messy for Germany. They had two goals disallowed and couldn’t break through. Ivory Coast played their dynamic attacking style in a wild open game. But Germany didn’t panic.
“This is a really important victory,” Undav said. “We showed great character today.”
Nagelsmann was careful not to overcommit. “I think that every player would love to be in the starting lineup,” he said. “But I think he’s very happy as it is right now.”
The subtext is clear though. When a guy scores two off the bench and has been on this kind of run, you find a way to get him on the field from minute one.
What Undav’s surge means for Germany’s attack
Germany plays Ecuador in New York on Thursday. That’s the final group stage match. Nagelsmann could rotate some guys. But at some point you ride the hot hand.
Defender Jonathan Tah made the case for Undav bluntly. “We had exactly what it takes to succeed in a tournament, a winning mentality, team spirit. We didn’t give up; we just kept going.” He added: “The guys coming off the bench brought new energy to the game. Deniz deserves special mention. He was outstanding.”
Simon Adingra had a late chance for Ivory Coast but couldn’t get a shot off. Then Germany charged back and Fofana had to block a low shot from Nathaniel Brown. That sequence basically summed up the game — relentless pressure from both sides but Germany had the finisher.
Ivory Coast is now in a tougher spot in Group E. Germany is through. And Undav is probably the most dangerous option Nagelsmann has right now.
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