Germany crushes debutants Curacao 7-1 in World Cup opener

Germany launched their World Cup campaign with a resounding 7-1 thrashing of debutants Curacao on Sunday, a match that saw history made on multiple fronts beyond the one-sided scoreline. The victory served as a strong statement of intent from Julian Nagelsmann's side, signaling their presence among the tournament's potential contenders.

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Germany's Felix Nmecha scored the fastest goal of the tournament so far after six minutes and Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz (two), Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav also netted in an easy outing for Julian Nagelsmann’s side.

Felix Nmecha set the tone early, scoring the fastest goal of the tournament after just six minutes. The German onslaught continued with further goals from Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz (who netted twice), Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown, and Deniz Undav. This clinical performance showcased Germany's attacking prowess and control throughout the match.

However, the occasion was equally significant for Curacao. The 68,021 spectators erupted when Livano Comenencia scored their historic first World Cup goal in the 21st minute. Curacao, the smallest nation by population and area to ever compete in the finals, celebrated this milestone despite the overwhelming defeat. Their journey to the World Cup was a historic achievement in itself, celebrated by their passionate supporters under the guidance of Dick Advocaat, who became the oldest coach in World Cup history at 78.

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But the biggest cheer from the 68,021 crowd came for Livano Comenencia’s 21st minute equaliser for Curacao to score their first goal at a World Cup as they became the smallest nation by population size and area to play at the global finals.

Further historical footnotes were made with the inclusion of goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, who at 40 became the oldest player to feature for Germany at a major tournament, surpassing Lothar Matthaeus's record. While the scoreline mirrored Germany's famous 7-1 victory over Brazil in the 2014 semi-finals, the current German team demonstrated clinical efficiency and control, sending a clear message to their rivals.

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Recalled goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is now also the oldest player to feature for Germany at a major tournament aged 40, beating the previous record holder Lothar Matthaeus, when he played at the 2000 European Championship.