Sport: Soccer Country: Germany Category: Scores & Results

Germany prepares for World Cup opener against Curaçao with strong mindset

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 10:56 AM

Last updated Jun 12, 2026

Germany prepares for World Cup opener against Curaçao with strong mindset

Summary

Germany is set to open their World Cup campaign against Curaçao on Sunday, with defender Nico Schlotterbeck emphasizing the need to showcase the team's historic virtues, including discipline and resilience. Schlotterbeck expressed confidence in Germany's abilities, citing past setbacks from previous tournaments as motivation for a successful start. The team aims to secure a clear victory in Houston to shake off the disappointments of earlier group stage exits in 2018 and 2022. Sporting director Rudi Völler echoed this importance, stating that an early win can provide a sense of peace and positive energy for the long tournament ahead. With a mix of experienced and youthful players, Germany hopes to begin their World Cup journey on a strong note.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Germany plays Curaçao in their World Cup opener on June 12.
•Nico Schlotterbeck stresses the importance of demonstrating traditional German virtues.
•Germany has suffered early exits in previous World Cups, motivating their current efforts.
•Rudi Völler believes an early win can boost team spirit.
•The squad includes both experienced players and youthful talent for the tournament.

Latest Updates

10:56 AMYahoo Sports — German virtues needed again at World Cup to show 'how good we are'

What they're saying

"
Germany must show their famous and feared virtues of the past to set the tone in their World Cup opener on Sunday against debutants Curaçao and beyond, defender Nico Schlotterbeck has urged. "I am happy that the tournament is starting and we can show everyone how good we are," Schlotterbeck told reporters.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer