FT: Germany 7-1 Curaçao
Germany opened their FIFA World Cup Group E campaign with a commanding 7-1 victory over debutants Curaçao at Houston Stadium.
Kai Havertz scored twice as Julian Nagelsmann’s side delivered a dominant attacking performance against the smallest nation in World Cup history.
Germany took the lead in the sixth minute when Felix Nmecha combined with Florian Wirtz before steering a first-time finish into the far corner. Curaçao responded in the 21st minute through Livano Comenencia, whose deflected strike beat Manuel Neuer to give the World Cup newcomers their first goal at the tournament.
The equaliser briefly lifted Curaçao, but Germany quickly regained control. Nico Schlotterbeck headed in from Nathaniel Brown’s cross in the 38th minute before Havertz converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after Riechedly Bazoer fouled Nmecha.
Germany continued their dominance after the break, with Jamal Musiala scoring in the 47th minute from Joshua Kimmich’s pass to make it 4-1. Brown then marked his World Cup debut with a composed volley in the 68th minute before substitute Deniz Undav added a sixth goal 10 minutes later.
Havertz completed the scoring in the 88th minute with his second goal of the match, sealing a convincing win for the four-time world champions.
Germany controlled the match for long periods, finishing with 65 percent possession and 26 shots compared to Curaçao’s eight. The result gives Nagelsmann’s side an early advantage in Group E.
Manuel Neuer also made history, becoming Germany’s oldest player to feature at a major tournament at 40 years and 79 days.
Nagelsmann said his side responded well after Curaçao’s equaliser.
“It took us a few minutes to get back into the game after they equalised,” he said. “I am very satisfied with us scoring seven goals and with our performance for the most part. A winning start is always important.”
Havertz, who was named player of the match, said the result would give Germany confidence ahead of their next fixture.
“The first World Cup match is always tough,” Havertz said. “That is why we are very happy with the 7-1 win. It was a good start.”
For Curaçao, the defeat was heavy, but Comenencia’s goal provided a historic moment on their World Cup debut.
Germany will next face Ivory Coast, while Curaçao will turn their attention to a crucial Group E match against Ecuador on 20 June.
