HOUSTON, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Germany launched its 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion with a 7-1 victory over Curacao in their Group E opener at NRG Stadium in Houston on Sunday afternoon.
Germany took a 3-1 lead over World Cup debutant Curacao at halftime with the four-time world champion dominating possession and chances for most of the time.
Felix Nmecha opened the scoring in the sixth minute before Curacao's Livano Comenencia netted a historic equalizer in the 21st minute, the Caribbean side's first-ever goal at a World Cup finals.
Germany regained control through Nico Schlotterbeck's header in the 38th minute and Kai Havertz's stoppage-time penalty.
Germany continued to dictate play after the interval, overwhelming Curacao with its pace, movement and attacking depth as they added four more goals to complete the commanding 7-1 victory.
The result handed Germany three points from its opening match, while Curacao will seek its first World Cup point against Ecuador in its next Group E fixture. ■
