Deniz Undav's Double Sends Germany into Round of 32

Germany booked their ticket to the round of 32 in dramatic fashion, with substitute Deniz Undav delivering a second-half brace to overturn a one-goal deficit. The 2-1 victory not only kept their campaign alive but also cemented Undav's reputation as the tournament's most lethal 'super sub'.

The comeback

Trailing after a first-half strike from the opposition, Germany looked sluggish and lacked incision in the final third. Manager Julian Nagelsmann turned to his bench, introducing Undav with just over half an hour to play. The VfB Stuttgart forward wasted no time, nodding home an equaliser from a pinpoint cross before slotting home the winner with a composed finish. The turnaround sparked wild celebrations, as the team booked their passage into the knockout phase.

Undav's super sub role

Undav has made a habit of changing games from the bench. His two goals here add to a growing tally of decisive interventions in this tournament, where 'super subs' have become a recurring theme. Unlike starting strikers who often face tired defences, substitutes like Undav bring fresh legs and a point to prove. His movement and instinct in the box have made him Germany's go-to weapon when the game is on the line.

What it means for Germany

Advancing to the round of 32 gives Germany a platform to build momentum. The gritty comeback showed character, but questions remain about their slow starts and reliance on bench players. With knockout football on the horizon, Nagelsmann will hope his side can impose themselves earlier in fixtures. If Undav continues to deliver from the bench, Germany could be a dangerous proposition for any opponent.