Deniz Undav Role For Germany At The World Cup Remains Unchanged, Nagelsmann Says

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Germany extended a strong run of results with a 2-1 victory over Ghana in Stuttgart, sealed by an 88th-minute goal from Deniz Undav. Kai Havertz had earlier converted a first-half penalty. The win stretched Germany’s sequence to seven straight victories, giving Julian Nagelsmann a settled platform before the World Cup.

That success also marked Germany’s best winning streak since the team delivered eight consecutive victories under Hansi Flick between September 2021 and March 2022. Despite the positive momentum and Undav’s late impact, Nagelsmann stressed that the forward’s position in the squad structure for the World Cup remains unchanged.

Nagelsmann underlined that Undav’s dramatic goal would not alter the established hierarchy in attack. The head coach explained that the planning for the tournament is already set. "He did what he often does in Stuttgart. He wasn't very involved. I don't think he was at all until then. But then he scored, that's what he's there for," said the Germany boss on Undav.

Nagelsmann detailed why the striker’s responsibilities will stay the same during the build-up to the World Cup. "That's the crucial thing, that he can take advantage of chances when the opponent is a bit tired. He did what a goalscorer has to do. But as I said before, I think if he already has 70 minutes in his legs, then it will be difficult."

The coach also highlighted the importance of consistency in selection before the World Cup. "We have defined roles. And I must stick to them in the next two matches before the World Cup, otherwise I can forget about my credibility. If I then do everything differently, theres no point in having the discussion about roles in the first place." Undav, who replaced Serge Gnabry at half-time, had only 13 touches and completed six passes, with his goal coming from his single effort on target.

Undav’s introduction at the break was greeted warmly in Stuttgart, where the forward plays club football and enjoys strong local backing. Later, however, the mood shifted when Leroy Sane was brought on in the 78th minute, with the winger jeered by sections of the crowd despite joining a team chasing a late winner.

Germany World Cup preparations, Leroy Sane and fan reaction

Sane delivered the decisive pass for Undav’s 88th-minute finish, linking up neatly in the closing stages. After the match, Undav expressed mixed feelings about the atmosphere. "I thank the fans for chanting my name. That made me happy," said Undav. "But hopefully next time they don't boo Leroy Sane. That was a pity. Leroy is part of the team, just like myself, every player and every staff member. We should support everyone."

The match against Ghana therefore reinforced several themes for Germany ahead of the World Cup. Nagelsmann’s side continued a productive winning run, Undav again showed efficiency rather than volume in front of goal, and Sane contributed a key assist. At the same time, the coach’s comments confirmed that squad roles are largely fixed as tournament preparations move into their final phase.