Germany’s first game, matched up with Curaçao; seemed to be an obvious advantage; the German Side, perennial contenders; and Curaçao? The smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup. Good for them, but modest expectations at best. 

Germany scored first; then soon after Curaçao’s answered. It seemed competitive. Until it wasn’t. 

Germany went ahead at the xx mark in the first half with a header goal by Nico Schlotterbeck off a corner kick. It was Schlotterbeck’s first goal in 26 starts for the national team. 

Germany didn’t look back, scoring five more goals for a final score of 7-1. 

And this was one of the only blow-outs of the first set of games  in the opening week; there were several close games where underdogs played over their heads and played full time to a draw. Ivory Coast even bested Ecuador!

Overall, inspired play, and super-fun to watch. Keep it coming!