Havertz scores twice as Germany thrash Curacao

Four-time winners Germany overcome a brief scare from World Cup debutants Curacao before turning on the style to win their Group E opener in Houston.

Germany began their 2026 World Cup campaign with a resounding 6-1 victory over Curacao at NRG Stadium in Houston, recovering from an early scare to dominate the Group E encounter. The debutants stunned the four-time champions in the 8th minute when a swift counter-attack caught the German defense off guard, giving Curacao a shock lead. However, Germany responded almost immediately. In the 15th minute, Kai Havertz collected a pass from Jamal Musiala and drilled a low shot into the bottom corner to level the score. The equalizer settled German nerves, and they took control of the match. Havertz struck again in the 28th minute, turning in a cross from Leroy Sane to put Germany ahead. Before halftime, Ilkay Gundogan added a third with a powerful strike from distance, making it 3-1 at the break. Germany continued to pour forward after the interval. Florian Wirtz played a clever through ball for Musiala, who slotted home in the 55th minute. Substitute Niclas Fullkrug then headed in a corner in the 68th minute, and Joshua Kimmich completed the rout with a superb free kick in the 82nd minute. The victory showcased Germany's attacking depth and resilience. Havertz's double highlighted his excellent form, while young talents Musiala and Wirtz impressed with their creativity. Coach Hansi Flick praised the team's character after falling behind, noting that the quick response was crucial. For Curacao, despite the heavy defeat, their early goal was a historic moment as World Cup debutants. They showed promise in the opening stages but ultimately lacked the experience to withstand Germany's relentless pressure. The team will need to regroup quickly for their remaining group matches. Germany now top Group E with three points, setting up an intriguing clash against their next opponent. Curacao, meanwhile, will look to learn from this experience and aim for a better result in their upcoming fixtures.

Havertz scores twice as Germany thrash Curacao

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