Germany begin their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in Group E, facing tournament debutants Curaçao. This opening fixture in Houston presents a significant contrast in footballing pedigree, with the four-time world champions aiming for a strong start after recent disappointments, while the Caribbean nation celebrates a historic first appearance on the global stage.
What's at Stake
For Germany, the match is an opportunity to lay down a marker and banish the memories of consecutive group-stage exits in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. Julian Nagelsmann's side are widely considered heavy favourites in Group E, which also includes Côte d'Ivoire and Ecuador, and anything less than a convincing victory would invite early scrutiny. Curaçao, meanwhile, arrive with little pressure but immense pride. As the smallest nation by both population and area ever to qualify for a World Cup, their objective will be to compete admirably and perhaps cause one of the tournament's biggest upsets.
Recent Form
Germany enter the tournament in strong form, having won their last nine matches across all competitions, including impressive friendly victories of 4-0 against Finland and 2-1 over the United States in their World Cup build-up. They secured their World Cup spot by topping their UEFA qualifying group with five wins from six matches, scoring 16 goals and conceding just three, notably thrashing Slovakia 6-0. Curaçao's qualification journey was remarkable, topping their Concacaf group with an undefeated record, scoring 28 goals and conceding only five. However, their recent friendly results have been mixed, including a 4-1 loss to Scotland and a 1-5 defeat against Australia, though they did secure a 4-0 victory over Aruba.
Team News & Predicted Line-ups
Germany have been forced into one late squad change, with Bayern Munich starlet Lennart Karl ruled out due to a muscle fibre tear sustained in training. RB Leipzig's Assan Ouedraogo has been called up as his replacement. Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, 40, is expected to start despite a recent calf strain. Manager Julian Nagelsmann has a wealth of talent at his disposal, particularly in attacking areas.
Predicted Germany XI (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Raum; Pavlovic, Nmecha; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz.
Curaçao report no fresh injury concerns ahead of their historic debut, allowing veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat to select from a full complement of players. Advocaat, 78, returns to the World Cup stage as the oldest coach in tournament history, having briefly stepped down earlier in the year. Key players for the 'Blue Wave' include experienced goalkeeper Eloy Room, captain and midfielder Leandro Bacuna, his brother Juninho Bacuna, and former Manchester United youngster Tahith Chong.
Predicted Curaçao XI (5-4-1): Room; Floranus, Gaari, Bazoer, Obispo, Fonville; Chong, Comenencia, L Bacuna, J Bacuna; Locadia.
Prediction
Germany are overwhelming favourites for this encounter. Their blend of experienced stalwarts and exciting young talent, coupled with strong recent form, suggests they will be too formidable for the debutants. While Curaçao will undoubtedly bring passion and defensive organisation, the gulf in class is likely to be evident. Germany will aim to secure a comfortable victory, potentially with an eye on goal difference in a competitive Group E.
Score Prediction: Germany 4-0 Curaçao
Kickoff XI is an independent publication and is not affiliated with FIFA.
