Undav's substitute heroics reignite Germany's starting lineup debate

Deniz Undav's explosive substitute appearances in Germany's 2026 World Cup qualifiers have ignited a debate about his starting position, even before the tournament began. The Stuttgart forward has needed only 29 touches and four shots across two matches to score three goals and provide two assists, all as a substitute.

Jürgen Klopp and Thomas Müller, prominent figures in the football world, had already noted Undav's merits. His impact was evident against Curaçao, where he scored and assisted in a 7-1 rout. However, his performance against Ivory Coast, a more challenging opponent, was even more decisive. Coming on in the 60th minute, Undav scored in the 68th and netted the winning goal in the 94th minute, turning the game around and securing Germany's 2-1 victory.

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Everyone did very, very well. They were two goals from Deniz. He scored two great goals, without thinking. He knows where the goal is and the 2-1 victory was crazy. It was emotional. Every player has felt his value: the group has won.

This win, coupled with Ecuador's draw against Curaçao, ensured Germany topped their group with a perfect six points and nine goals scored. Coach Julian Nagelsmann lauded Undav's "two great goals, without thinking" and the team's collective effort. Undav himself acknowledged the team's support and his own confidence, stating, "The team and the coaching staff also make it very easy for me. That gives me self-confidence for the next games."

Despite his crucial contributions, Undav has yet to earn a starting spot, with Nagelsmann preferring other attackers like Jamal Musiala, Leroy Sané, Florian Wirtz, and Kai Havertz. However, his current form makes a start in the upcoming match against Ecuador, which is crucial for the South American team but inconsequential for Germany, increasingly likely. Germany will face a group third-place finisher in Boston on June 29 in the round of 16.

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After conceding the goal, we improved and pressed more in the second half. After the substitution, I realized I had to seize the opportunities directly. Certainly, we also had luck. Many things are working right now. The team and the coaching staff also make it very easy for me. That gives me self-confidence for the next games.