Germany vs Curaçao: Match Preview

Germany head into the 2026 World Cup eager to leave behind the frustrations of their last two disappointing campaigns, where expectations fell far short of reality. For Julian Nagelsmann’s side, progressing beyond the group stage is viewed as the minimum requirement this time around. Qualification proved relatively comfortable after an early setback — following an opening defeat, Germany responded emphatically, winning every remaining qualifier to comfortably top the group.

With 15 points from six matches, Die Mannschaft secured another World Cup berth and landed in a group that appears manageable on paper, alongside Curaçao, Ivory Coast, and Ecuador. Germany will clearly be targeting top spot and arrive at the tournament in strong form after recording four straight victories in pre-World Cup friendlies, boosting confidence within the squad.

For Curaçao, this tournament represents a historic breakthrough. The Caribbean nation will compete at a FIFA World Cup finals for the very first time, having impressed throughout qualification. They dominated the second round by winning all four matches and continued their momentum in the decisive stage, collecting 12 points from six games to narrowly finish ahead of Jamaica and seal automatic qualification.

The buildup has not been entirely smooth, however. Dick Advocaat initially stepped away from his role for personal reasons, only to later return and resume leadership ahead of the tournament. His experience could prove vital as Curaçao attempts to compete against elite opposition on football’s biggest stage.

Match facts and head-to-head

Germany are riding a nine-match winning streak and have scored in every one of those games.

Curaçao have managed just one victory in their last five outings but have found the net in each of their previous three matches.

This will be the first-ever meeting between Germany and Curaçao.

Probable line-ups

Germany: Baumann; Braun, Schlotterbeck, Tah, Kimmich; Pavlović, Nmecha; Wirtz, Musiala, Sané; Havertz. (Karl misses out through injury.)

Curaçao: Dornbusch; Sambo, Gary, Brenet, Van Eijma; Roomeratu, Marta, Cuvas, Margarita; Kenji Gorré, Jearl Margaritha.

Live Germany vs Curaçao - FIFA World Cup