Curacao Makes History with First FIFA World Cup Goal Against Germany

Historic Moment for Curacao in FIFA World Cup

Houston [US], June 14: A remarkable milestone was achieved on Sunday as Curacao netted their inaugural goal in FIFA World Cup history, scoring against the formidable German team during their Group E encounter.

Despite Germany dominating possession, it was Livano Comenencia who made history by scoring for Curacao.

As the report was being compiled, the smallest nation ever to qualify for a World Cup was holding Germany to a 1-1 draw.

In a significant move, Germany's attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala was given a starting position for the Group E opener against Curacao, even as he continues to regain his form after a broken leg kept him out for over six months last year.

In a surprising decision, Deniz Undav, Germany's top striker who was the second-highest scorer in the Bundesliga this season, began the match on the bench.

Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, the last remaining player from Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team, made his return to international play after coming out of retirement.

The 40-year-old was unexpectedly recalled to the national squad less than a month ago, taking the starting position over Oliver Baumann, who was anticipated to be Germany's primary goalkeeper for the tournament.

For Curacao, head coach Dick Advocaat included seasoned midfielder Tahith Chong in the starting lineup as the Caribbean nation made its historic debut in the FIFA World Cup.

Line Ups:

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.