Germany started their World Cup 2026 campaign with a dominant 5-0 victory over Ecuador at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Friday. The win was highlighted by a brace from Kai Havertz and a missed penalty from Ecuador's Enner Valencia.
First-Half Domination
Germany took control early, with Jamal Musiala opening the scoring in the 12th minute after a slick passing move. Havertz doubled the lead in the 28th minute with a clinical finish from the edge of the box. Ilkay Gundogan added a third from the penalty spot just before half-time after a handball in the box.
Second-Half Drama
Ecuador had a golden opportunity to get back into the game when they were awarded a penalty in the 52nd minute after a foul by Antonio Rudiger. However, Enner Valencia's spot-kick was saved by Manuel Neuer, who dived to his left. Germany then capitalized, with Havertz scoring his second in the 67th minute and Leroy Sane rounding off the scoring in the 81st minute.
Impressive Performance
According to Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, "The team executed the game plan perfectly. We were aggressive in possession and clinical in front of goal." The victory puts Germany top of Group D with three points, while Ecuador will need to regroup ahead of their next match against Japan.
