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Nadiem Amiri: 'Never Thought I'd Be at the World Cup'
The substitute set up Deniz Undav's equalizer as Germany won 2-1 and advanced to the knockout stage with a perfect Group E record.
On June 20, Germany secured top spot in Group E with a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast in Toronto, as substitute Nadiem Amiri delivered a crucial assist for Deniz Undav to equalize.
Coach Julian Nagelsmann selected Amiri for the squad after his 12-goal Bundesliga season, relying on a professional bond formed 14 years ago at Hoffenheim.
Nagelsmann noted Amiri can "spark something" after the 70th minute, and the midfielder celebrated his World Cup debut by assisting a goal in front of 20 family members in Toronto.
Germany prepares for their final group match against Ecuador on June 25, though Nagelsmann must adjust his lineup following defender Nico Schlotterbeck's injury and criticism of midfielder Jamal Musiala.
Amiri stated the team approaches the Ecuador match "like a final" to maintain winning momentum, expressing readiness to contribute whenever deployed during the World Cup.
Nadiem Amiri came against the Ivory Coast from the bank – and promptly prepared the balance. This is no coincidence: Amiri worked with a mental trainer to be the optimal joker.