Deniz Undav emerged as the decisive figure with a late goal as Germany national football team narrowly defeated Ghana national football team in a friendly match in Stuttgart. Introduced at the break by coach Julian Nagelsmann, the forward capitalised on a loose ball created by Leroy Sané, finishing past goalkeeper Benjamin Asare in the 88th minute.
The striker, formerly of Stuttgart and Brighton, has been in prolific form domestically, netting 18 times in the Bundesliga this season. Only Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane has scored more, and this appearance marked Undav’s first involvement with Germany since June 2025.
Ghana, four-time Africa Cup of Nations winners who did not qualify for the 2025 edition, found themselves under early pressure. Germany threatened within six minutes when Florian Wirtz struck the post with a free-kick.
Havertz converts as Ghana respond after the break
Despite their early dominance, Germany had to wait until the closing moments of the first half to go ahead. Referee Stuart Attwell awarded a penalty after Angelo Stiller saw his cross deflect onto the arm of Jonas Adjetey.
Kai Havertz stepped up and calmly converted, sending Asare the wrong way to give the hosts the lead before the interval.
Germany continued to create chances after the restart and were again denied by the frame of the goal when Nick Woltemade headed against the crossbar. Ghana, however, found their response in the 70th minute, as Leicester City winger Abdul Fatawu brought the visitors level.
A late Undav finish secures narrow victory
With the match heading towards a draw, Germany found a decisive moment late on. Undav reacted quickest inside the area, turning in from close range after Sané’s involvement in the build-up.
The result ensured Germany recorded consecutive wins, following their 4-3 victory over Switzerland. Ghana, meanwhile, endured another setback, adding this defeat to their recent 5-1 loss against Austria.