Deniz Undav, who contributed three goal involvements, was substituted with a minor concern during Germany’s friendly match against Finland on Sunday evening. He provided an update shortly after the game, downplaying the severity of the injury.
Undav sustained a foot injury during his second goal, which temporarily made it 3-0 for the German team, and was taken off shortly thereafter.
The incident occurred following a through ball from Lennart Karl. Undav outpaced Finnish defender Tony Miettinen in a sprint. However, as he was taking his shot, Miettinen inadvertently made contact with his foot.
Although Undav managed to score, he immediately fell to the ground (57th minute) with a pained expression. After receiving treatment, he was substituted in the 61st minute for Maximilian Beier of Dortmund.
When asked about his injury by ZDF, Undav stated: «A little pain, but nothing serious. A bit of treatment in the next few days, and I’ll be fine.»
Deniz Undav Boosts His Chances for the World Cup
Prior to his second goal, Undav had already made a strong impression. He opened the scoring with a header from a quickly taken corner, assisted by Joshua Kimmich, before halftime (34th minute).
The 29-year-old also played a crucial role in the second goal. He quickly put pressure on Finland’s Adam Markhiev in his own penalty area, dispossessing him of the ball. The loose ball fell kindly to Florian Wirtz, who scored with ease.
Undav reappeared from the tunnel shortly before the final whistle, sitting on the bench in fresh clothing.
Undav is currently competing with Nick Woltemade for the second striker position in the German national team, behind Kai Havertz. Havertz was not present in Mainz as he had played in the Champions League final against PSG (4-5 on penalties) on Saturday.
Undav humbly stated that national coach Julian Nagelsmann would decide on his playing time, and he could «only try to do his job.» Personally, he described the evening as a «ten out of ten.»
Nagelsmann commented on Undav’s performance, saying, «When you score two goals and assist one, you don’t get yourself out of the team. We need players who can push the ball over the line. He did that very well.»
Deniz Undav’s Record in the German National Team
| Appearances | 8 |
| Full 90-Minute Appearances | 0 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 2 |