Germany has wasted no time making a statement at the FIFA World Cup 2026, dismantling Curaçao with a resounding 7-1 victory in their opening match on June 14. The contest, held amid much anticipation, quickly turned into a showcase of attacking prowess and tactical flair, but it was Deniz Undav’s continued rise that stole the spotlight—even though he didn’t start the game.
Fans and pundits alike had their eyes on Julian Nagelsmann’s starting lineup. With so much buzz around Undav’s remarkable scoring form, many expected the VfB Stuttgart striker to lead the line. Instead, Nagelsmann opted for Kai Havertz up front, a decision that raised eyebrows across the footballing world. Given Undav’s recent exploits, the conversation before kickoff was already electric: would the coach’s gamble pay off, or would Undav’s omission prove costly?
Let’s not forget just how hot Undav’s form has been. In the 2025-26 season, the striker bagged 19 goals in the Bundesliga for Stuttgart, added three more in the Europa League, and netted another three in the DFB-Pokal, bringing his season tally to a whopping 25 goals. That’s a haul any striker would envy, and it’s no wonder German supporters have been clamoring for his regular inclusion in the national side.
Undav’s journey with the national team has been nothing short of meteoric. Called up to the German squad just two years ago, he’s seized every opportunity with both hands. In just 10 appearances for Die Mannschaft—starting only three times—he’s racked up seven goals and four assists. Even more impressive, he’s scored seven goals in his last seven games for Germany, according to @iMiaSanMia. It’s a streak that has made him one of the most talked-about forwards in the country.
Despite this, Nagelsmann’s choice to start Havertz over Undav set tongues wagging. Was it a tactical decision? A nod to experience? Or simply a manager’s hunch? Whatever the reasoning, the German attack clicked from the outset, with Nathaniel Brown and Felix Nmecha also turning in standout performances. The team’s fluidity and relentless pressure overwhelmed Curaçao, who struggled to contain the waves of German attacks.
The match itself was a masterclass in offensive football. Germany’s players moved with purpose, combining slick passing with clinical finishing. The goals came thick and fast, with the scoreboard ticking over at regular intervals. Yet, as the second half unfolded, the crowd’s anticipation grew: would Undav get his chance to shine?
The answer came emphatically. Brought on as a substitute, Undav wasted little time making his presence felt. In the 53rd minute, he found the back of the net, extending Germany’s already commanding lead to 6-1. According to FOX Sports, “Deniz Undav scored a goal that extended Germany’s lead to 6-1 over Curaçao.” The strike was classic Undav—sharp, instinctive, and brimming with confidence. It was yet another reminder of why so many are calling for him to start.
Undav’s impact off the bench was not just about the goal. His movement, link-up play, and relentless energy injected fresh life into Germany’s attack. Each touch seemed to galvanize his teammates, and his hunger for goals was evident in every run. For a player who has started only three times for the national team but boasts such an impressive scoring record, the calls for a starting berth are only growing louder.
“Undav has more than proved his mettle,” wrote Bavarian Podcast Works, echoing the sentiments of fans across the nation. “Such performances and consistency warrant a position in the starting XI.” It’s a compelling argument, especially given his ability to deliver in the big moments. Will Nagelsmann heed the calls and hand Undav a starting role in the next match? That remains to be seen, but the pressure is certainly mounting.
It’s not just Undav who deserves praise, though. The entire German squad looked sharp and focused, with Nathaniel Brown and Felix Nmecha turning in performances that will have delighted the coaching staff. Brown’s composure at the back and Nmecha’s dynamism in midfield provided the perfect platform for Germany’s attacking stars to express themselves. The combination of youth and experience in the squad suggests that this German team could be a force to be reckoned with as the tournament progresses.
For Curaçao, the night was a tough learning experience. Facing one of Europe’s footballing giants on the world stage is never easy, and while they managed to notch a consolation goal, they were ultimately outclassed in every department. Still, the World Cup is as much about growth as it is about glory, and Curaçao’s players will surely take valuable lessons from this encounter.
Looking ahead, the big question is what Germany’s starting lineup will look like in their next outing. With Undav continuing to score at will—seven goals in his last seven games for Germany, as highlighted by @iMiaSanMia—the debate over who should lead the line is only intensifying. Havertz offers versatility and experience, but Undav’s numbers are impossible to ignore. As the tournament heats up, Nagelsmann faces a welcome selection headache.
The German camp will no doubt be buzzing with confidence after such a dominant display. The team’s attacking depth is the envy of many, and the blend of established stars and emerging talents gives them a real shot at going deep in the competition. Yet, as every football fan knows, there are no easy games at this level, and Germany will need to maintain their intensity if they’re to fulfill their ambitions.
For now, though, all eyes are on Deniz Undav. His journey from Bundesliga sensation to international goal machine is one of the stories of the tournament so far. Whether he starts the next game or continues to make an impact off the bench, one thing’s for sure: Germany’s World Cup hopes may well rest on his prolific boots.
With a convincing 7-1 victory in their opening match and a squad brimming with talent, Germany has set the tone for what promises to be an exhilarating World Cup campaign. The debate over Undav’s role will rage on, but if he keeps scoring, it’ll be hard for anyone—including Nagelsmann—to keep him out of the spotlight.