Germany v Curacao - World Cup result as Julian Nagelsmann's charges start quest in style with seven-goal romp

Curacao created a memorable World Cup moment scoring in their first finals match, but ended up being destroyed by a ruthless Germany 7-1 in their Group E clash in Houston.

Germany dominated early with Felix Nmecha scoring a fine opener and could have had a few more before Livano Comenencia’s deflected effort beat Manuel Neuer to spur joyous celebrations in the stadium and back home 2,000 miles away.

There were then a few shaky moments for the four-time winners but their set-piece proficiency saw them reassert their dominance, as Nico Schlotterbeck headed home a corner and, in injury time, Kai Havertz converted a penalty after Nmecha was brought down.

A couple of minutes into the second half, Jamal Musiala produced a fantastic first-time finish, an effort matched by Nathaniel Brown just before the drinks break.

Substitute Denis Undav set up Brown’s goal and also Havertz’s second, while in-between scoring his own as Germany matched the scoreline from their unforgettable victory over Brazil in Rio 12 years ago.

Germany next play the Cote d'Ivoire on June 20, while Curacao take on Ecuador 24 hours later.

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A familiar scoreline for Germany as they show offensive quality to thrash tournament outsiders.

They chipped a free kick to Havertz and he nodded down to Goretzka, but the ball took a leg-spinning bounce and he couldn't connect with a volley.

But he can't get the ball under control to get a shot underway.

They emulate their score in the 2014 semi-final as Havertz runs through on goal chasing Undav's through-ball and, so coolly, waits for the goalkeeper to go down and lifts the ball over him and into the net.

The substitute German full-back shoots low at the near post but the Curacao stopper saves well with his feet.

The Sheffield United man has played well today. He is replaced by Kastaneer.

They were queuing up to score that one. Havertz cut a ball back from the by-line which found Kimmich all alone at the back post and, after the keeper comes out towards him, he squares for Undav who just about guides the ball home.

It looked like Neuer was beaten as he curled a shot at goal from the edge of the box but it just did not dip enough.

But no team-mate was there to convert the chance.

Goalscorers Nmecha and Brown come off for Goretzka and Raum. Play now resumes after the hydration break.

His arm was offside but not a scoring part of his body, so Brown keeps his goal, which you have to say he deserves.

A nice flick from Undav put the impressive full-back through on goal and he finished coolly guiding the ball inside the far post.

Curacao make their second substitution.

A confidence-boosting shift for the former Chelsea starlet.

He brings down a ball over the top brilliantly but then, after drawing the keeper, slams his effort just wide of the goal.