Germany will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Sunday knowing anything less than victory against tournament debutants Curacao would be considered a major shock.
Julian Nagelsmann’s side arrive in Houston in excellent form, having won each of their last nine matches across all competitions, and the four-time world champions are expected to make an immediate statement in Group E.
The Germans have endured disappointing World Cup campaigns in recent years, suffering group-stage eliminations in both 2018 and 2022. However, confidence has been restored under Nagelsmann, with victories over Switzerland, Ghana, Finland and the United States highlighting their progress ahead of the tournament.
Germany boast a squad packed with quality, including Joshua Kimmich, Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz and Leroy Sane, while Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is expected to lead the attack. Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer is also in line to start despite recent concerns over a calf problem.
For Curacao, simply reaching the World Cup represents a historic achievement. The Caribbean nation became the smallest country by population and land area to qualify for the tournament and will be making its first appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Led by experienced Dutch coach Dick Advocaat, Curacao topped their qualification group and enter the competition with nothing to lose. Former Aston Villa midfielder Leandro Bacuna will captain the side, while ex-Manchester United winger Tahith Chong is expected to provide the main attacking threat.
Despite the underdog story surrounding Curacao, Germany’s superior quality, experience and momentum make them overwhelming favourites heading into the contest.
A convincing victory would give Nagelsmann’s men the perfect platform for the remainder of the group stage, where Ivory Coast and Ecuador also await.
Prediction: Germany 3-0 Curacao
