Germany opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in dominant fashion on Sunday, sweeping aside debutants Curaçao with a commanding 7–1 victory in their Group E clash.
The four-time world champions asserted control from the outset, dominating possession and creating early chances as they set the tone for a one-sided encounter.
Felix Nmecha put Germany ahead in the sixth minute, finishing off a well-coordinated attacking move that reflected their early superiority.
Despite Germany’s control, Curaçao stunned spectators in the 21st minute when Livano Comenencia struck to draw the Caribbean side level, scoring their first-ever World Cup goal.
The equaliser briefly lifted Curaçao’s hopes, but Germany quickly reasserted authority and resumed their attacking pressure.
Defender Nico Schlotterbeck restored Germany’s lead in the 38th minute with a composed finish, easing the pressure on the European giants.
Kai Havertz converted from the penalty spot in first-half stoppage time (45+5) to extend the lead to 3–1, giving Germany a comfortable cushion going into the break.
Germany maintained their intensity after the restart, with Jamal Musiala adding the fourth goal in the 47th minute following a defensive lapse by Curaçao.
The goal further boosted Germany’s confidence as they continued to dictate play and pile pressure on their opponents.
Nathaniel Brown made it 5–1 in the 68th minute after a flowing team move that cut through the Curaçao defence.
Substitute Deniz Undav joined the scoring in the 78th minute, capitalising on sustained German pressure and defensive errors.
Kai Havertz later completed his brace in the 88th minute to seal an emphatic victory, with Germany finishing the match with six different scorers.
The result gives Germany an early advantage in Group E and reinforces their status as strong contenders for a fifth World Cup title.
Despite the heavy defeat, Curaçao will take pride in their historic first World Cup goal, scored by Comenencia, which marked a milestone moment for the nation.
Germany’s coach praised the team’s attacking fluency and discipline, while acknowledging that tougher challenges lie ahead in the group stage.
