Germany began their World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion with a dominant 7-1 victory over debutants Curacao in their Group E opener in Houston on Sunday.
The four-time world champions secured their first winning start at a World Cup since lifting the trophy in 2014 and now sit in a strong position ahead of tougher fixtures against Ecuador and Ivory Coast.
Felix Nmecha gave Germany an early breakthrough in the sixth minute after curling a superb effort beyond Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room following a pass from Florian Wirtz.
Curacao, backed loudly by their travelling “Blue Wave” supporters, stunned the Germans when Livano Comenencia equalised with a deflected strike that left veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer helpless.
The goal briefly lifted hopes of a major upset, with Curacao coach Dick Advocaat celebrating passionately on the touchline, while Germany struggled to regain control before the drinks break.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side eventually restored order as Nico Schlotterbeck headed home from a corner in the 38th minute for his first international goal.
Germany extended their lead before halftime when Kai Havertz calmly converted from the penalty spot after Nmecha was fouled by Riechedly Bazoer inside the area.
The Germans wasted little time after the restart, with Jamal Musiala scoring just 69 seconds into the second half after meeting Joshua Kimmich’s through pass.
Leroy Sane missed a clear opportunity to add another, but Nathaniel Brown made no mistake moments later as the fullback fired home Germany’s fifth goal.
Substitute Deniz Undav continued his impressive scoring form by netting Germany’s sixth, making it seven goals in his last seven appearances for the national team.
Havertz completed the rout late on with his second of the match and 24th international goal, sealing a scoreline identical to Germany’s famous 7-1 demolition of Brazil in the 2014 World Cup semi-final.
