Germany run riot as World Cup finally feels right

Seven goals, no nerves

Germany opened their World Cup with a 7–1 demolition of Curaçao in Houston (1). Felix Nmecha got the party started, and the goals never stopped. This is your team's first opening-match win at a major tournament since 2014, that weight is gone now.

Nagelsmann's rotation sends a message

Antonio Rüdiger started on the bench and only came on in the second half (1). Julian Nagelsmann made it clear: nobody is untouchable. Nathaniel Brown took his chance at left-back, scored, and ran the flank like he owned it. Newcastle are watching.

Neuer makes history

Manuel Neuer became the oldest player ever to appear for the German national team, taking the field in Houston (1). A quiet milestone on a loud night.

Ivory Coast next, Saturday at 22:00 CEST

That is the one that decides the group. Germany face Ivory Coast on Saturday, June 20 (2). Curaçao were never the real test, this is.

Hellstern heads to Fürth

VfB Stuttgart goalkeeper Florian Hellstern is joining Greuther Fürth on loan (3). kicker calls him the most exciting goalkeeping talent in Germany. One to track from a distance while the World Cup rolls on.

Fan reactions

The mood online is pure joy. A fan posted footage of Nico Schlotterbeck's goal from the stands in Houston, and the thread is full of fans simply soaking it in. Another thread asked supporters to share their favorite Germany and Bayern moments, the responses doubled down on how much this opening win meant after years of early exits.