World Cup 2026: Germany overcomes early scare to thrash Curaçao 7-1

Germany began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a resounding 7-1 victory over Curaçao, a team making its first-ever appearance in the tournament. While the scoreline suggests a dominant performance, the match in Houston presented a brief moment of concern for the four-time champions.

“

If Curaçao scored the first goal of its history in the final phase, it will not have weighed much against the Mannschaft (7-1).

Germany took an early lead through Felix Nmecha in the sixth minute, assisted by Florian Wirtz. However, Curaçao, a small Caribbean island nation ranked 82nd in the FIFA standings, achieved a historic milestone when Livano Comenencia scored their first-ever World Cup goal in the 21st minute, leveling the score at 1-1. This equalizer, slightly deflected by German captain Joshua Kimmich, sent their passionate supporters into a frenzy and momentarily unsettled the German squad.

The equalizer, however, proved to be a mere blip for the heavily favored German team. Before halftime, Germany regained the lead with a header from defender Nico Schlotterbeck from a corner kick in the 38th minute. Kai Havertz then extended their advantage with a penalty kick just before the break, putting Germany up 3-1.

“

The Mannschaft [...] obtained the large success it came to seek.

In the second half, Germany's superior quality shone through as they added four more goals. Nathaniel Brown scored twice, and Ilkay Gündogan and Jamal Musiala each added one. The victory, while comprehensive, also marked a milestone for Curaçao's veteran goalkeeper Eloy Room, 37, and their coach Dick Advocaat, 78, who became the oldest coach to officiate at a World Cup. Germany's next match is against Ivory Coast, where goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is set to become the most capped goalkeeper in World Cup history.

“

It was necessary to see the experienced goalkeeper Eloy Room (37 years old), at the other end of the field, jump for joy in front of the delirious stands of his supporters, while the substitutes and the staff invaded the pitch, mad with joy.