Germany launched their FIFA World Cup campaign in dominant style, sweeping aside debutants Curacao 7–1 in Houston on Monday. The four-time champions produced a ruthless second-half performance, with Kai Havertz scoring twice to headline a commanding victory.
The result marked the biggest win of the tournament so far and briefly took Germany past Brazil as the highest-scoring nation in World Cup history with 239 goals, one ahead of Brazil’s 238. It was also the fourth time Germany has scored seven or more goals in a World Cup match, more than any other team.
Germany struck early when Felix Nmecha finished clinically in the 6th minute after a setup from Florian Wirtz. Curacao, however, made history in the 21st minute when Livano Comenencia scored their first-ever World Cup goal, briefly stunning the favourites and levelling the match at 1–1.
But Germany responded before half-time. Nico Schlotterbeck restored the lead in the 38th minute, and Kai Havertz converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after Felix Nmecha was brought down inside the box. Germany went into the break 3–1 up, having already controlled nearly 70% possession and created 16 shots.
The second half turned into a one-sided showcase. Jamal Musiala scored within a minute of the restart, finishing a flowing move initiated by Joshua Kimmich. Nathaniel Brown added the fifth with a volley from Deniz Undav’s assist, before Undav himself got on the scoresheet in the 78th minute. Havertz then completed the rout in the 88th minute, finishing off another Undav assist.
Germany finished with 64.7% possession and 26 shots, completely overwhelming Curacao, who managed eight attempts.
Despite the scoreline, Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann praised both his team’s reaction and Curacao’s courage.
“The first 15 minutes were fantastic. We had many attempts. The equalising goal was unexpected, but it was fascinating to see how the team reacted to it,” Nagelsmann said.
He also acknowledged the underdogs’ spirited display: “Curacao played better than many people expected. They showed courage, and it is not easy to score seven goals, so we are satisfied. We are on the right path, but there are things we can improve with tougher opponents ahead.”
On his team’s mindset at 1–1, he added: “We had to be patient. The team really wants to give 100 per cent. If we maintain this intensity, we can have a good tournament.”
Nagelsmann also highlighted the confidence boost from the result: “We really needed this convincing win. That confidence was always there, but it has grown. It was important to show the people in Germany that we can perform.”
Germany now face Ivory Coast in their next group-stage match in Toronto on Saturday.