Deniz Undav stepped off the bench to transform Germany’s World Cup match against Ivory Coast, scoring twice in a late 2-1 comeback that confirmed top spot in Group E and underlined Julian Nagelsmann’s view of Undav as a decisive impact substitute for this tournament.

The Stuttgart striker now has three goals at this World Cup, all as a substitute, and has been involved in five goals across Germany’s two games. That return equals Roger Milla’s record for the most direct goal involvements by a substitute at a single World Cup since 1966.

Undav became the first player to score in each of their first two World Cup appearances for Germany since Miroslav Klose in 2002. Across those games, Undav has produced three goals and two assists from the bench, making each cameo count during group play.

The crucial equaliser arrived in the 69th minute, when substitute Nadiem Amiri delivered a low cross from the right. Undav anticipated the ball well, arrived in the middle, and finished from close range to cancel out Franck Kessie’s earlier strike for Ivory Coast at Toronto Stadium.

Germany pushed hard in stoppage time, with play stretched and Ivory Coast tiring. Undav completed the turnaround when Felix Nmecha found space and slipped a sharp pass through the defence, allowing Undav to control and finish with composure, securing the win deep into added time.

Nagelsmann praised Undav’s natural instincts in front of goal, but indicated there is no guarantee of a starting role despite the scoring run. For now, the coaching staff appear content to use Undav as a specialist option from the bench when games become stretched.

“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.”

Germany’s win, combined with Ecuador’s draw against Curacao, confirmed Nagelsmann’s side at the top of Group E with one match still to play. That status cannot change, although Germany still aim to defeat Ecuador, as the staff want to maintain rhythm before the knockout rounds.

Germany players reflect on pressure and performance

Nagelsmann felt every squad member contributed to the result, especially during the frantic closing stages. “Every player could sense how important they are for us todaythe whole team earned that victory,” Nagelsmann added. “The contest became very open towards the end, but thats normal, because we wanted to win. The next step is to beat Ecuador and then deal with each challenge as it comes.”

Undav described entering the match knowing chances might be limited, but that any opportunity needed a quick response. “When I came on, I knew I had to make the most of any chances off the bat,” Undav said. “We certainly enjoyed a slice of fortune as well. A lot is falling my way at the moment. Im 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.”

Germany edge Ivory Coast but suffer Schlotterbeck injury

Ivory Coast remained competitive throughout, creating a major opening early in the second half that could have put them 2-0 ahead before Nagelsmann changed the game with three substitutions on the hour. Coach Emerse Fae felt performance levels were high, but that fine details cost his team against Germany.

“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.”

Germany paid a price for the comeback when centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck suffered an injury that forced a withdrawal. Nagelsmann confirmed the early medical assessment pointed towards a serious problem. “Nico is suspected to have sustained a ligament injury. It’s not looking good,” Nagelsmann said.

Germany now move into the knockout phase with confidence boosted by Undav’s impact and top position in Group E secured, but the possible loss of Schlotterbeck and Ivory Coast’s warning performance show that bigger tests, both in terms of opponent quality and squad depth, still await.