Germany produced a ruthless display to launch their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a convincing 7-1 victory over tournament debutants Curaçao, sending an early warning to the rest of the field.

The emphatic scoreline inevitably evoked memories of Germany’s historic 7-1 demolition of Brazil in the 2014 World Cup semi-finals, one of the most iconic results in football history. Twelve years later, the four-time world champions were once again in devastating form.

Julian Nagelsmann’s side took control early when Felix Nmecha curled home the opening goal after just six minutes, setting the tone for what appeared to be a routine evening.

However, Curaçao briefly stunned the Germans in the 21st minute when Livano Comenencia fired home his country’s first-ever World Cup goal, levelling the score and sparking celebrations among the Caribbean nation’s supporters.

Germany responded with the composure expected of a title contender. Nico Schlotterbeck restored the lead with a powerful header in the 38th minute before Kai Havertz converted from the penalty spot deep into first-half stoppage time to make it 3-1 at the break.

Any hopes of a Curaçao comeback disappeared shortly after the restart as Jamal Musiala added a fourth goal. Nathaniel Brown then joined the scoresheet before substitute Deniz Undav increased the advantage further.

Havertz completed his brace late on to seal a dominant 7-1 victory and cap an impressive all-round performance from the Germans.

The result sends Germany to the top of their group and reinforces their status as one of the favourites for the title. Attention now turns to a crucial Group E clash against Ivory Coast this Saturday before they conclude the group stage against Ecuador.