Germany launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in dominant fashion, thrashing debutants Curaçao 7-1 in their Group E opener in Houston on Sunday. Felix Nmecha gave Germany an early lead in the sixth minute after being set up by Florian Wirtz. Curaçao responded through Livano Comenencia in the 21st minute, scoring the nation's first-ever World Cup goal. However, Germany quickly regained control and went on to record a comprehensive 7-1 victory.
In another World Cup match, Japan and the Netherlands played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their Group F opener at Dallas Stadium in Texas. After a goalless first half, Virgil van Dijk headed the Netherlands into the lead. Japan equalised soon after through Keito Nakamura, but the Dutch restored their advantage when Crysencio Summerville curled home a superb effort. Japan fought back late in the game, securing a point when Daichi Kamada's header found the net to make it 2-2.
