Deniz Undav's brace powered Germany's dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over Ivory Coast, securing their first World Cup knockout berth since 2014. The Stuttgart striker has contributed five goal involvements across two substitute appearances, matching Roger Milla's 1990 record for impact off the bench. His performances have forced manager Julian Nagelsmann to reconsider his starting XI for the Ecuador match.

Undav's path to international football reads like a movie script. Rejected by Werder Bremen at 14 for being too small, he worked eight-hour factory shifts while playing semi-professional football in Germany's fourth tier at 17. The early mornings and late evenings paid off when he moved to Belgium in 2020, scoring 25 goals to earn a Premier League move.

After struggling at Brighton, Undav flourished with 19 Bundesliga goals last season, trailing only Harry Kane in the scoring charts. This form earned his World Cup call-up and now serious consideration for a starting role despite their public disagreement earlier this year. Nagelsmann admitted Undav's impact merits a place in the lineup.

Germany's attacking options have shifted dramatically. While Kai Havertz started the previous matches, Undav's knack for delivering when coming off the bench makes him indispensable. The team faces Ecuador knowing their forward line operates at full strength with both players contributing.