Germany hit seven past Curacao as Kai Havertz double headlines FIFA World Cup rout

The four-time champions, led by Julian Nagelsmann, were expected to control proceedings against the tournament newcomers, and they did so for long spells, though Curacao briefly made history of their own on an unforgettable night for the Caribbean nation.

Felix Nmecha set the tone early, curling home a superb sixth-minute opener after linking with Florian Wirtz. Germany appeared in complete control from that point, but Curacao stunned the stadium in the 21st minute when Livano Comenencia struck a deflected equaliser - the country's first-ever goal at a World Cup - sparking wild celebrations among their travelling support.

That moment of joy, however, was short-lived. Nico Schlotterbeck restored Germany's lead in the 38th minute with a well-placed header from a corner, before Kai Havertz converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after Nmecha was brought down in the box.

From there, the match tilted decisively. Jamal Musiala struck just 69 seconds into the second half, finishing from a tight angle after a sharp pass from Joshua Kimmich, effectively ending any lingering hopes of an upset.

Germany continued to press relentlessly. Nathaniel Brown added a fifth with a composed finish from the edge of the area before substitute Deniz Undav extended the lead, continuing his impressive run of international form. Havertz then capped the scoring with his second of the night, sealing a result that matched Germany's famous 7â-1 semi-final win over Brazil in 2014.

Despite the scoreline, Curacao's participation carried historic significance throughout. The nation became the smallest by population and area ever to feature at a World Cup, while veteran coach Dick Advocaat, aged 78, became the oldest manager in tournament history. At the other end of the spectrum, Germany's 40-year-old goalkeeper Manuel Neuer also set a milestone, becoming the oldest German player to appear at a World Cup.

The result puts Germany in a strong position in Group E ahead of tougher tests against Ecuador and Ivory Coast, while Curacao will take encouragement from a landmark goal and an historic first appearance on football's biggest stage, despite the heavy defeat.

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