Germany they bounced back from an early setback to kick-start their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a stunning 7-1 win over the tournament’s debutants Curaçao at the opening of Group E in Houston.
The four-time world champions took the lead after just six minutes when midfielder Felix Nmecha powerfully hammered home the fastest goal of the tournament so far.
Curacao makes history despite the defeat
Curacao, appearing in its first ever World Cup, responded impressively and caught Germany by surprise midway through the first half.
Zurich midfielder Livano Comenencia etched his name into national football history with a deflected shot from outside the penalty area in the 21st minute to level the score.
The Caribbean side, the smallest nation ever to appear at the World Cup, briefly threatened another surprise when striker Jurgen Locadia unsuccessfully sought a penalty after a challenge from Jonathan Tah.
However, Germany regained control by the break. Defender Nico Schlotterbeck restored their lead with a near-post header from Nathaniel Brown’s corner before Kai Havertz converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after Riechedly Bazoer fouled Nmecha in the box.
Germany revolted after the break
Germany put the contest beyond doubt shortly after the restart.
Jamal Musiala scored less than two minutes into the second half after being picked out by Joshua Kimmich, extending Germany’s lead to 4-1.
Brown then got himself on the scoresheet, volleying home after a clever strike from substitute Deniz Undav.
Undav added Germany’s sixth moments later after another assist from Kimmich before Havertz completed his brace two minutes from time with a delicate finish over goalkeeper Eloy Room.
The convincing win sends Germany to the top of Group E and underlines their credentials as title contenders, while Curacao, despite their historic first goal at the World Cup, are left to ponder a difficult introduction to football’s biggest stage.
