Nagelsmann Hails Undav’s Late Winner as Germany Build Momentum

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann was all smiles after watching substitute Deniz Undav snatch a late winner in the friendly against Ivory Coast. The goal, which came in the closing stages, gave Die Mannschaft a morale-boosting result as they put the finishing touches on their preparations for the upcoming European Championship on home soil.

The goal

With the clock ticking down and the game locked in a tense stalemate, Nagelsmann turned to Undav from the bench. The Stuttgart forward, who has been in fine form for his club this season, repaid his manager’s faith in emphatic fashion. Picking up the ball just inside the box, Undav showed quick feet to create space before unleashing a precise finish past the Ivorian goalkeeper. It was a moment of individual brilliance that broke the deadlock and sent the home crowd into raptures.

Nagelsmann’s reaction

Speaking after the match, Nagelsmann was full of praise for Undav’s contribution. The Germany boss highlighted the striker's calmness under pressure and his ability to make an impact in tight situations. “That’s exactly what you want from a player coming off the bench — to change the game,” Nagelsmann said, clearly delighted with the forward’s display. He also noted that Undav’s work rate and movement off the ball have been improving, making him a valuable asset in the squad.

What it means

Undav’s goal is more than just a late winner in a friendly. With the Euro 2024 squad announcement looming, every performance counts. The 27-year-old is pushing hard for a place in Nagelsmann’s final 23, and this strike will have done his chances no harm. Germany have often struggled to find a reliable goalscorer in recent tournaments, but Undav’s form — both for Stuttgart and now in the national setup — offers a fresh option. Nagelsmann will be hoping that this momentum carries into the tournament, as Die Mannschaft look to challenge for the title on home soil.