Germany will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign on Sunday when they take on tournament newcomers Curacao in a Group E encounter in Houston, with Julian Nagelsmann’s side expected to start strongly against the smallest nation ever to qualify for football’s biggest tournament.
Die Mannschaft arrive at the World Cup looking to put behind them the disappointment of back-to-back group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022. Despite not being regarded among the leading favourites for the trophy, Germany’s pedigree remains unquestionable, with four World Cup titles to their name and a squad packed with elite talent.
Nagelsmann’s men head into the tournament in excellent form, having won each of their last nine matches across all competitions. Their preparation included friendly victories over Switzerland, Ghana, Finland and co-hosts USA, further boosting confidence ahead of their opening fixture.
Germany know that anything less than three points against Curacao would be considered a major disappointment, especially with tougher Group E clashes against Ivory Coast and Ecuador still to come.
For Curacao, meanwhile, Sunday represents a historic occasion. Dick Advocaat’s side will make their FIFA World Cup debut after becoming the smallest nation by both population and land area to qualify for the tournament. The Caribbean side secured their place in North America after topping their qualification group, with a crucial draw against Jamaica in November 2025 confirming their historic achievement.
The Blue Wave’s official social media channels have been building excitement ahead of the occasion, sharing a “One Day Left” countdown graphic featuring key members of the squad as they prepare for the biggest match in the nation’s football history.
Although Curacao suffered a 4-1 defeat to Scotland in a pre-World Cup friendly, they responded impressively with a 4-0 victory over Aruba and will be hoping to carry that momentum into their opening match.
Team News
Germany have only one minor concern, with veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer recovering from a calf issue, although the experienced shot-stopper is expected to start.
Joshua Kimmich, Jonathan Tah, Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz are all set to feature, while Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is expected to lead the attack as he looks to add to his international tally.
Curacao have no major injury concerns heading into the contest. Captain Leandro Bacuna is expected to marshal the midfield alongside his brother Juninho Bacuna, while former Manchester United winger Tahith Chong will be the team’s main attacking threat after an encouraging start to his international career.
Possible Lineups
Germany possible starting lineup:
Neuer; Kimmich, Tah, Schlotterbeck, Brown; F Nmecha, Pavlovic; Sane, Musiala, Wirtz; Havertz
Curacao possible starting lineup:
Room; Sambo, Obispo, Gaari, Floranus; Comenencia, J Bacuna, L Bacuna; Chong, Gorre, Antonisse
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 18:00 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Germany 3-1 Curacao
Germany are overwhelming favourites and possess significantly greater quality, experience and depth than their opponents. However, Curacao will embrace the underdog tag and seek to frustrate the four-time world champions as they make history in their first-ever World Cup appearance.
For Germany, the objective is clear: begin the tournament with a convincing victory and build momentum for the challenges ahead. For Curacao, any positive result would rank among the greatest achievements in the nation’s sporting history.
