History was made on Sunday as Curacao scored their first-ever FIFA World Cup goal in their debut match, finding the net against the formidable German side in a Group E clash in Houston.
Historic Goal for Curacao
Despite Germany dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the tournament debutants struck back through Livano Comenencia, who scored a historic equalizer for the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup. At the time of reporting, the score stood at 1-1.
Germany's Lineup Decisions
Germany's attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala was handed a starting role despite recovering from a broken leg that sidelined him for over six months last year. In a surprising selection call, in-form striker Deniz Undav, who finished as the Bundesliga's second-highest scorer behind Harry Kane, started on the bench. Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, the sole remaining member of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning squad, made his first international appearance since coming out of retirement. The 40-year-old was recalled to the national team less than a month ago and was preferred over Oliver Baumann, who was expected to be the first-choice goalkeeper.
Curacao's Starting XI
Curacao head coach Dick Advocaat named experienced midfielder Tahith Chong in the starting lineup as the Caribbean nation made its historic tournament debut.
Lineups
Germany: Manuel Neuer, Nathaniel Brown, Nico Schlotterbeck, Jonathan Tah, Joshua Kimmich; Aleksandar Pavlovic, Felix Nmecha, Florian Wirtz, Leroy Sane, Jamal Musiala; Kai Havertz.
Curacao: Eloy Room; Sherel Floranus; Riechedly Bazoer, Sontje Hansen, Armando Obispo, Deveron Fonville; Juninho Bacuna, Leandro Bacuna, Livano Comenencia; Tahith Chong, Jurgen Locadia.
