Curacao came into June 14, 2026 riding one of the best stories in international soccer. A nation of around 150,000 people had just become the smallest country ever to qualify for a men’s FIFA World Cup. The moment felt historic before a single ball was kicked.
Germany had other plans.
The four-time world champions were ruthless from the opening whistle, controlling possession and pressing Curacao deep into their own half right from the start.
Felix Nmecha got Germany on the board in just the sixth minute, curling a finish beyond goalkeeper Eloy Room after a sharp passing move. It set the tone for what was coming.
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Curacao’s Moment Against Manuel Neuer
To their credit, Curacao didn’t fold. In the 20th minute, Sontje Hansen and Tahith Chong drove through the middle on a quick break. Leandro Bacuna’s effort was blocked but the rebound fell to Livano Comenencia, who arrived late from deep and drilled a low shot that deflected past Manuel Neuer.
NRG Stadium erupted. For a stretch after that, the tournament debutants more than held their own against one of the sport’s heavyweight nations, creating chances and putting three shots on target across the match.
The equalizer didn’t last long, though. Nico Schlotterbeck headed home a Nathaniel Brown cross in the 38th minute to restore Germany’s lead. Then, in first-half stoppage time, Kai Havertz converted from the penalty spot after Riechedly Bazoer brought down Nmecha.
Just like that, Germany went into halftime with a two-goal cushion and full control of the game.
Germany Pull Clear in the Second Half
The second half was all Germany. Jamal Musiala scored just two minutes after the restart. Brown added a volley in the 68th minute. Deniz Undav found the net ten minutes later and Havertz completed his brace in the 87th minute. The final scoreline read 7-1.
Germany opened Group E play with three points and a statement. Curacao left Houston with a heavy loss but also something they’ll hold onto for a long time.
They scored against Manuel Neuer on the world’s biggest stage. For a nation their size, that moment alone means something.