Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has hinted that Deniz Undav could be handed a start in their next game in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 29-year-old scored twice for Die Mannschaft to inspire them to a 2-1 comeback win against Ivory Coast.
Ivory Coast captain Franck Kessie gave his side the lead in the 30th minute while Germany struggled to create clear-cut chances. Undav was brought in by Nagelsmann in the 60th minute and the VfB Stuttgart striker completely changed the dynamics of the game.
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He connected to a fantastic cross from fellow substitute Nadiem Amiri to score the equaliser in the 68th minute. The former Brighton & Hove Albion striker came up with the winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time to secure his side a place in the knockout stages.
Following the game, Julian Nagelsmann has hinted that Undav could be rewarded with a start against Ecuador in their final FIFA World Cup group stage game. He said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano:
“Gonna start next games or not? It’s possible. But he’s doing very well in his current role. It can go in both directions.”
Deniz Undav has been a lethal goalscorer for Germany at the international stage, having now scored nine goals in 11 caps. He has now scored three goals and also provided two assists in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far despite only playing 56 minutes of football.
Liverpool and Manchester United set to battle each other for Germany’s FIFA World Cup star – Reports
Premier League giants Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly set to battle each other for the signature of Felix Nmecha. The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has impressed for Germany in the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far.
The 25-year-old’s strong run of form for club and country has reportedly attracted interest from a host of clubs. Liverpool and Manchester United are said to be keen on the midfield dynamo, who was formerly in the youth ranks of Manchester City.
Nmecha has impressed both defensively and offensively for Germany at the 2026 FIFA World Cup so far. He has also contributed with one goal and two assists in the tournament so far.
The midfielder moved to Borussia Dortmund from VfL Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023. He has made 112 appearances for the BVB so far, scoring 13 goals and providing eight assists.
Edited by Snehanjan Banerjee