Germany begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against tournament debutants Curacao in Houston today. Since winning the title for the fourth time in 2014, Germany have underperformed on the global stage, exiting in the group stage twice. However, placed in a favorable Group E alongside Ivory Coast and Ecuador, Julian Nagelsmann's side is expected to progress. Curacao, meanwhile, are an unknown quantity after qualifying for their first-ever World Cup by defeating Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.
Date, Kick-off Time and Venue
The match is scheduled for a 6pm BST kick-off on Sunday June 14, 2026, at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas.
Where to Watch Germany vs Curacao for Free
TV channel: In the UK, the game will be broadcast live and free-to-air on ITV1, with coverage starting at 5pm BST.
Live stream: UK viewers can watch online for free via the ITVX app or ITV website.
Live blog: Follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport's live blog.
Free highlights: Highlights are available on FIFA's official YouTube channel, the ITVX app, and website.
Germany vs Curacao Team News
Germany suffered a major injury blow just weeks before the tournament, with Bayern Munich youngster Lennart Karl forced to withdraw. He has been replaced by Assan Ouedraogo. Joshua Kimmich will captain the side, while Arsenal striker Kai Havertz and Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz are expected to feature. Manuel Neuer has been passed fit 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, earning his 73rd cap. Tahith Chong, Riechedly Bazoer, and Jurgen Locadio should also feature.
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 go one way. The FIFA World Rankings also suggest a clear favorite, but strange things can happen in a World Cup opener. We expect Germany to secure a comfortable victory, even if Curacao show plenty of spirit. Prediction: Germany 2-0.
Head to Head 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. We aim to offer a safe and fair platform through unbiased reviews. Gambling can be addictive; always play responsibly and only bet what you can afford to lose. For help, visit BeGambleAware or Gamcare. Terms & Conditions apply.
