Germany began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a resounding 7-1 drubbing of debutants Curacao on Sunday to make a real statement of intent.
Kai Havertz struck a brace, while Felix Nmecha, Nico Schlotterbeck, Jamal Musiala, Nathaniel Brown and Deniz Undav were on target once in a thoroughly dominant performance.
The Blue Waves, playing in their first ever World Cup clash, displayed fearlessness in the first half, attempting to absorb pressure and then hitting their mighty rivals on the break.
Just minutes after Germany opened the scoring, Curacao responded brilliantly to make it 1-1 against the odds; Livano Comenencia fired a long-range effort beyond Manuel Neuer.
It seemed like the four-time champions could be in for a contest here, but it wasn't long before Germany exerted themselves on the match and subjugated the inexperienced Curacao.
Here's how Borussia Dortmund stars fared in the rout:
Felix Nmecha - 8
What a menacing attacking display from Felix Nmecha! He fired Germany in front with a sublime finish into the top bin following a neat one-two with Florian Wirtz. Brimming with confidence and looking devastating in possession, Nmecha took the game to Curacao with his pace and directness. The midfielder mustered four shots, three of which were on target.
Nico Schlotterbeck - 8
Nico Schlotterbeck headed in Germany's second goal of the evening to make it two strikes for the Borussia Dortmund contingent on the night. The BVB star leapt the highest to meet Nathaniel Brown's corner and diverting it into the back of the net. Defensively too, he was solid: making five interceptions and four clearances to demonstrate exemplary vision while winning five of his seven ground duels to play a key role in winning back the ball.
Waldemar Anton - 6.5
Borussia Dortmund's chief defensive linchpin, Waldemar Anton came off the bench with less than 10 minutes of normal time remaining and made sure everything's kosher at the back, preventing any late flourish from Curacao. Although much of the action was happening at the other end of the field, Anton was positionally aware and held the line brilliantly.
Maximilian Beier - N/A
With Germany turning on their A-1 game offensively, Maximilian Beier wasn't needed. The Dortmund forward remained an unused substitute and was forced to witnessed the carnage from the bench. One can be sure he'd have liked to join the action too and perhaps struck a goal or an assist, but Naglesmann opted to rest him here.
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