Deniz Undav return adds firepower to high-flying VfB Stuttgart
Deniz Undav marked his first start for VfB Stuttgart since August with a spectacular game-winning goal against Mainz as the Swabians climbed to third in the Bundesliga.
In the absence of Atakan Karazor, Jeff Chabot and Ermedin Demirović, Sebastian Hoeneß appointed Undav as his captain, who led from the front on his first start for almost two months.
The Stuttgart star made an intelligent run in behind Mainz's high defensive line, which was spotted by goalkeeper Alexander Nübel, who launched a long ball over the top.
Through on goal, Undav exhibited his lethal finishing, remaining composed to chip the ball over the onrushing Robin Zentner to secure a 2-1 victory and extend their winning streak.
“We knew we had to keep going, going, going, and eventually our moment would come," Undav told DAZN. "I initially wanted to put my finish through [the goalkeeper’s] legs. But because I’m stupid, I changed my mind at the last moment [laughs]! In the end, I did right.”
Watch: Stuttgart 2-1 Mainz - highlights
The importance of Undav’s return
With Demirović - who is Stuttgart’s leading goalscorer this season with three goals - absent after suffering a fractured metatarsal in his foot while on international duty with Bosnia and Herzegovina, plus the loss of Nick Woltemade to Newcastle United in the summer, the return of Undav, who missed six games with a knee injury, is a welcome one.
Possessing a high footballing IQ with intelligent movement and an eye for goal, the 29-year-old is a constant threat in the opposition final third, which has been evident since his successful loan spell from Brighton and Hove Albion that prompted Stuttgart to sign the player on a permanent basis.
Flying Stuttgart
Wins for Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen meant that Stuttgart went into the final game of the weekend knowing that a win would take them back into a UEFA Champions League spot.
Going 1-0 down courtesy of a Nadiem Amiri penalty kick, Stuttgart responded well with a goal from Chris Führich in the fourth minute of stoppage time of the first half.
Undav’s glorious goal 10 minutes from time then secured a statement win as Hoeneß’s side showcased determination to secure their fifth consecutive Bundesliga victory.
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