Germany routs World Cup debutants Curaçao 7-1 in Houston opener

Fast start and early scare

Germany needed only six minutes to open the scoring when Felix Nmecha played a one-two with Florian Wirtz and curled a fine shot into the net. The early control suggested a straightforward evening, but Curaçao (appearing at their first World Cup) responded in the 21st minute. Livano Comenencia picked up a loose ball after a blocked effort by Jürgen Locadia and drilled a powerful strike that deflected off Joshua Kimmich past Manuel Neuer, giving the Caribbean island its first-ever World Cup goal.

Response before half-time

Germany regained the lead in the 38th minute from a set-piece. Nathaniel Brown delivered a corner and Nico Schlotterbeck rose to plant a header into the net. The German pressure continued and, deep into first-half stoppage time, Nmecha was brought down inside the box. Kai Havertz stepped up to convert the penalty, making it 3-1 at the break.

Second-half dominance

The match was effectively put beyond reach 47 minutes in when Jamal Musiala received a through ball and slotted a diagonal finish past the Curaçao goalkeeper. Germany maintained control and added three more goals. Brown smashed home a fifth in the 68th minute after a lay-off from Deniz Undav, who later scored himself from close range in the 78th minute. Havertz completed the rout in the 88th minute, slipping a composed finish for his second of the night.

Player performances

Havertz was the only player to score twice, while Nmecha contributed a goal and won the penalty. Brown and Undav each had a goal and an assist, and Kimmich provided two key passes, including the through ball for Musiala's strike. For Curaçao, Comenencia's historic goal was the bright spot; substitute Antonisse (who plays for Greek club Kifissia) came on and created one headed chance for Leandro Bacuna.

Group E outlook

Germany top Group E with three points. The group's first matchday concludes early Monday with Ivory Coast facing Ecuador.