Germany open their 2026 World Cup campaign against debutants Curacao in Houston today.
Since being crowned global champions for the fourth time in 2014, Germany’s performances on football’s biggest stage have been extremely disappointing for a nation of their stature.
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Two group stage exits have followed since standing tall in Brazil, though they are expected to do much better in North America after being placed in a favourable group.
With Ivory Coast facing Ecuador in the other opening Group E fixture, it’s important that Julian Nagelsman’s side get off to a flying start, otherwise another early exit will be on the cards.
Curacao, meanwhile, are an unknown quantity - particularly on the global stage having qualified for their first-ever World Cup by getting the better of Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, among others.
Date, kick-off time and venue
Germany vs Curacao is scheduled for a 6pm BST kick-off today on Sunday June 14, 2026.
The match will take place at Houston Stadium (NRG Stadium) in Houston, Texas.
Where to watch Germany vs Curacao for FREE
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live and free-to-air on ITV1, with coverage starting at 5pm BST.
Live stream: UK viewers can also catch the contest live online for free via the ITVX app or ITV website.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog.
Free highlights: World Cup highlights are available on FIFA’s official YouTube channel, along with the ITVX app and website.
Germany vs Curacao team news
Germany were rocked by a major injury blow just weeks before the tournament getting underway with Bayern Munich youngster Lennart Karl forced to withdraw from the squad.
He has since been replaced by Assan Ouedraogo. Joshua Kimmich will captain the side, while Arsenal striker Kai Havertz and Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz should also feature.
Manuel Neuer has been passed fit for his Germany return after a calf issue.
Germany squad
Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer, Oliver Baumann, Alexander Nubel
Defenders: Joshua Kimmich, Nico Schlotterbeck, David Raum, Jonathan Tah, Waldemar Anton, Antonio Rudiger, Nathaniel Brown, Malick Thiaw
Midfielders: Jamal Musiala, Florian Wirtz, Assan Ouedraogo, Angelo Stiller, Aleksandar Pavlovic, Leon Goretzka, Leroy Sane, Felix Nmecha, Nadiem Amiri, Pascal Gross
Forwards: Kai Havertz, Deniz Undav, Jamie Leweling, Nick Woltemade, Maximilian Beier
Leandro Bacuna, formerly of Aston Villa, Reading, Cardiff and Watford, is expected to captain Curacao on their World Cup debut, winning his 73rd cap in the process.
Tahith Chong, Riechedly Bazoer and Jurgen Locadio should all feature too.
Curacao squad
Goalkeepers: Tyrick Bodak, Trevor Doornbusch, Eloy Room
Defenders: Riechedly Bazoer, Joshua Brenet, Roshon Van Eijma, Sherel Floranus, Deveron Fonville, Jurien Gaari, Armando Obispo, Shurandy Sambo
Midfielders: Juninho Bacuna, Leandro Bacuna, Livano Comenencia, Kevin Felida, Ar'Jany Martha, Tyrese Noslin, Godfried Roemeratoe
Forwards: Jeremy Antonisse, Tahith Chong, Kenji Gorre, Sontje Hansen, Gervane Kastaneer, Brandley Kuwas, Jurgen Locadia, Jearl Margaritha.
Germany vs Curacao prediction
On paper, this fixture should only go one way. The FIFA World Rankings also suggest there is one clear favourite, but strange things can happen in a World Cup opener.
That said, we expect Germany to seal a comfortable victory here - even if Curacao show plenty of spirit.
Germany to win, 2-0.
Head to head (h2h) history and results
This will be the first-ever meeting between Germany and Curacao at any level.
Germany vs Curacao match odds
Odds via World Cup betting sites (subject to change). Check out the latest World Cup free bet offers. 18+. Gamble responsibly.
