Germany Hit Seven as Curaçao Receive Harsh World Cup Lesson

Houston, 14 June 2026 – Four-time world champions Germany delivered a ruthless display at the FIFA World Cup 2026™, defeating tournament debutants Curaçao 7-1 in a dominant Group E encounter at Houston Stadium.

Julian Nagelsmann's side wasted no time asserting their superiority. Germany opened the scoring in the sixth minute when Felix Nmecha combined brilliantly with Florian Wirtz before firing a precise first-time effort into the far corner.

Despite being under heavy pressure, Curaçao produced a memorable moment in the 21st minute. Livano Comenencia capitalized on uncertainty in the German defense and unleashed a deflected strike that beat veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, sending the Curaçao supporters into celebration and marking one of the most historic goals in the nation's football history.

The underdogs' joy, however, proved short-lived. Germany restored control before halftime as Nico Schlotterbeck rose unmarked to head home from a corner. Moments later, Kai Havertz calmly converted a penalty after Riechedly Bazoer fouled Nmecha inside the box, giving Germany a comfortable 3-1 lead at the break.

The second half began in devastating fashion for Curaçao. Just two minutes after the restart, Jamal Musiala latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Joshua Kimmich and finished clinically into the bottom corner.

Germany continued to dominate as World Cup debutant Nathaniel Brown marked his first appearance on football's biggest stage with a composed volley in the 68th minute. Substitute Deniz Undav added a sixth goal ten minutes later, finishing from close range after another flowing German attack.

Havertz completed his brace in the 88th minute, capping an outstanding individual performance and sealing a comprehensive 7-1 victory.

The result sends Germany to the top of Group E and reinforces their status as one of the tournament favorites. Curaçao, meanwhile, must quickly regroup ahead of a crucial clash against Ecuador on June 20.

Match Summary

Germany 7-1 Curaçao

Germany scorers: Felix Nmecha (6'), Nico Schlotterbeck (38'), Kai Havertz (45+5' pen, 88'), Jamal Musiala (47'), Nathaniel Brown (68'), Deniz Undav (78')

Curaçao scorer: Livano Comenencia (21')

Key Stat

At 40 years and 79 days old, Manuel Neuer became the oldest German player ever to appear at a major international tournament, surpassing the record previously held by Lothar Matthäus at UEFA EURO 2000.

Player of the Match

🏆 Kai Havertz – Two goals, relentless movement, and a commanding attacking display earned the German forward the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match award.