Germany thrash Curaçao 7-1 to launch World Cup campaign in style

Germany began their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion on Sunday, cruising to a commanding 7-1 victory over tournament debutants Curaçao in their Group E opener.

The four-time world champions delivered a dominant display at Houston Stadium, quickly putting behind the disappointing starts that marred their previous World Cup appearances.

Germany wasted little time asserting their authority, taking the lead in the sixth minute through midfielder Felix Nmecha. The Borussia Dortmund star combined effectively with Florian Wirtz before firing a low shot into the corner of the net.

Curaçao, however, produced a memorable moment in the 21st minute when Livano Comenencia scored the Caribbean nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup goal. The midfielder capitalized on uncertainty in the German defence and fired home a deflected effort past veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to level the score.

The equaliser briefly stunned Germany, but Julian Nagelsmann’s side soon regained control. Defender Nico Schlotterbeck restored the lead in the 38th minute with a powerful header from Nathaniel Brown’s corner kick.

Germany extended their advantage deep into first-half stoppage time after Felix Nmecha was fouled inside the penalty area. Kai Havertz stepped up and calmly converted from the spot to give his side a 3-1 lead heading into the break.

The second half saw Germany tighten their grip on the contest. Just two minutes after the restart, Jamal Musiala finished off a precise pass from Joshua Kimmich to make it 4-1.

Nathaniel Brown capped an impressive performance by scoring Germany’s fifth goal in the 68th minute, volleying home after contributing an assist earlier in the match.

Substitute Deniz Undav added a sixth goal ten minutes later, converting another opportunity created by Kimmich, before Havertz completed the rout with his second goal of the evening in the 88th minute.

The convincing victory sends Germany to the top of Group E and provides an early statement of intent as they seek to reclaim the World Cup title.

Despite the heavy defeat, Curaçao can take pride in scoring their first-ever World Cup goal during their historic tournament debut.

Germany will next face the Ivory Coast in Toronto on June 20, while Curaçao will look to bounce back when they take on Ecuador in Kansas City.