World Cup: Curacao Make History Despite 7-1 Defeat to Germany
World Cup debutants Curacao made history by scoring their first-ever goal at the tournament, but they suffered a heavy 7-1 defeat to Germany in their opening Group E match in Houston.
Germany, four-time world champions, started strongly and took the lead after just six minutes through Felix Nmecha. The midfielder curled a powerful shot into the net to score the fastest goal of the tournament so far.
Curacao, the smallest nation ever to compete at a World Cup, responded brilliantly. Zurich midfielder Livano Comenencia became a national hero when he scored the country’s first World Cup goal in the 21st minute. His shot from outside the box took a deflection and beat veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
The goal sparked celebrations among Curacao supporters and marked a historic moment for the Caribbean nation of around 155,000 people.
Curacao briefly threatened another surprise when striker Jurgen Locadia appealed for a penalty, but the referee waved play on.
Germany soon regained control. Defender Nico Schlotterbeck restored their lead with a header from Nathaniel Brown’s corner before Kai Havertz converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time after Felix Nmecha was brought down in the box.
Leading 3-1 at the break, Germany stepped up their performance in the second half.
Just over a minute after the restart, Jamal Musiala scored from a Joshua Kimmich pass to make it 4-1. Brown then added a fifth with a fine volley before substitute Deniz Undav got on the scoresheet for Germany’s sixth goal.
Havertz completed his brace two minutes from time with a delicate finish over Curacao goalkeeper Eloy Room after another assist from Undav.
Six different German players found the net as Julian Nagelsmann’s side began their World Cup campaign in impressive fashion.
Although the result was a painful one for Curacao, the night will always be remembered for Comenencia’s historic strike, which gave the island nation its first World Cup goal and a special place in football history.
