Deniz Undav Shines with Two Goals in Germany’s World Cup Victory Over Ivory Coast

Deniz Undav made headlines by equalling a remarkable World Cup scoring record, coming off the bench to score twice in Germany’s 2-1 comeback victory against Ivory Coast on Saturday.

The 29-year-old forward entered the match in the 60th minute with Germany trailing 1-0 after a first-half goal from Ivory Coast captain Frank Kessie.

Just eight minutes later, Undav leveled the score for Germany with a close-range volley, connecting perfectly with a curling cross from fellow substitute Nadiem Amiri.

He then clinched the win for the four-time world champions in stoppage time, scoring in the 94th minute after expertly turning and finishing a smart through-ball from Lukas Nmecha.

With this performance, Undav has now scored three goals in the ongoing 2026 World Cup, having netted as a substitute during Germany’s emphatic 7-1 victory over Curacao on matchday one. Additionally, he provided two assists against Curacao, bringing his total goal contributions to five in just two matches—tying him for the most contributions as a substitute in a single World Cup edition since records began in 1966, alongside Cameroon’s Roger Milla in 1990.

© Imago / IMAGO / Kirchner-Media / Bahho Kara.

Nagelsmann Considers Starting Undav Against Ecuador

Moreover, Undav has become the first player to score in his first two World Cup appearances for Germany since Miroslav Klose did so back in 2002.

“Deniz scored two outstanding goals. He is a born goalscorer and finished both chances instinctively,” remarked Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann during a post-match press conference.

When asked if Undav might start in Germany’s final group game against Ecuador on Thursday, Nagelsmann responded: “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.”.

Undav entered this summer’s tournament following an impressive season with Stuttgart, where he scored 25 goals and provided 14 assists across all competitions, including 19 Bundesliga goals.

© Imago / Ulmer, Teamfoto.

Undav Reflects on His Performance

In the match against Ivory Coast, Undav replaced Jamal Musiala as Kai Havertz shifted from his centre-forward position to play deeper behind him.

“When I came on, I knew I had to make the most of any chances off the bat,” Undav stated. “We certainly enjoyed a slice of fortune as well. A lot is falling my way at the moment. I’m trying to keep this run going and enjoy it.”.

He added that support from his teammates and coaching staff has boosted his confidence heading into future matches.

Nagelsmann faces a decision regarding whether to start either Undav or Havertz as central striker against Ecuador. Meanwhile, concerns loom over centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck’s fitness after he sustained an ankle injury during the match against Ivory Coast and may miss the remainder of the World Cup.