Group E standings
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Germany | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2 |  Ecuador | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3 |  Côte d'Ivoire | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 4 |  Curaçao | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
What each team needs
Germany
A win in their opening match would put Germany in a strong position to advance from Group E.
Curaçao
An opening win over Germany would be a major statement and strengthen Curaçao's chances of progressing.
Team comparison
| Stat | Germany | Curaçao |
|---|---|---|
| FIFA Ranking | 8 | 87 |
| World Cup Titles | 4 | 0 |
| World Cup Appearances | 20 | 1 |
| Best WC Finish | Champions (4 times) | Debut (2026) |
| Manager | Julian Nagelsmann | Dick Advocaat |
| How They Qualified | UEFA — Group A winners | CONCACAF — Nations League path |
| 2022 World Cup | Group stage — eliminated | Did not qualify |
| Captain | Joshua Kimmich | TBC |
Prediction
Germany 2 — 1 Curaçao
Based on FIFA rankings and recent form. Germany (ranked 8th) enters as the slight favourite.
Match facts
Germany have appeared at 20 World Cups. Curaçao have appeared at 1.
Germany are ranked 8th in the world. Curaçao are ranked 87th.
Curaçao will be making their World Cup debut in 2026.
Germany have won the World Cup 4 times.
This match takes place at NRG Stadium, which is one of the 16 World Cup 2026 venues.
How to watch
| Region | Broadcast |
|---|---|
| USA (English) | FOX / FOX Sports App |
| USA (Spanish) | Telemundo / Peacock |
| UK | BBC / ITV (TBC) |
| Worldwide | FIFA+ (select territories) |
Venue
NRG Stadium · Houston · Capacity: 68,311
Full stadium guide →