Germany kicked off their World Cup journey in commanding fashion on Sunday, dismantling tournament newcomers Curacao 7-1 in their Group E opening match in Houston.
The four-time champions secured their first victory in a World Cup opener since their triumphant 2014 campaign, significantly strengthening their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds for the first time in more than ten years.
Felix Nmecha put Germany ahead early, but Curacao briefly sparked hopes of a surprise result when Livano Comenencia’s deflected strike brought the Caribbean nation level and ignited celebrations among their fans.
Germany, however, responded emphatically. Nico Schlotterbeck, Kai Havertz with a brace, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown, and Deniz Undav all got on the scoresheet as the Europeans powered to a convincing win.
Brown, who celebrated his maiden international goal, expressed his excitement after the match.
“It is indescribable. To score in my first World Cup match with my family in the stands and celebrate with my teammates is simply incredible,” he said.
Germany set the tempo from the opening whistle, with Nmecha scoring in the sixth minute after a clever pass from Florian Wirtz before curling his effort beyond Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room.
Despite Germany’s dominance, Curacao found an unexpected equaliser against the run of play when Comenencia’s shot took a deflection past veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
The setback only briefly slowed Germany, as Schlotterbeck restored the lead in the 38th minute with his first goal for the national side, heading home from a corner. Havertz then made it 3-1 from the penalty spot before halftime after Nmecha was brought down in the box.
Germany returned from the break with greater intensity, as Musiala scored just 69 seconds into the second half from a Joshua Kimmich assist.
Brown added the fifth goal, while substitute Undav continued his impressive international form by netting Germany’s sixth. Havertz wrapped up the emphatic victory with his second goal of the night and his 24th for Germany.
“The goal we conceded was unnecessary, but that’s football. I’m proud of the way we responded and kept pushing,” Brown added.
The victory leaves Germany well positioned ahead of more challenging Group E encounters against Ecuador and Ivory Coast.
For Curacao, the defeat served as a difficult introduction to football’s biggest tournament, though their spirited display and passionate supporters offered moments of encouragement.
Germany’s seven-goal performance also brought back memories of their historic 7-1 triumph over Brazil in the 2014 World Cup semi-final.
AFP
