Lionel Messi Reacts to Germany’s Win Against Curaçao

However, the celebration did not last long. Nico Schlotterbeck restored Germany’s lead, Kai Havertz converted a penalty before halftime, and the second half quickly turned into a rout.

Jamal Musiala extended the lead two minutes after the restart, Havertz added his second of the afternoon, substitute Denis Undav got on the scoresheet and Nathaniel Brown completed the scoring. Undav also registered two assists, while Joshua Kimmich orchestrated much of Germany’s attack in a dominant all-around display.

The performance quickly caught the attention of the sports world, including the Argentina national team. After the game, a video circulating on social media showed Lionel Messi and several Argentina players watching the match together as they continued preparations for their World Cup opener.

Germany’s resurgence is one of the major storylines of the early tournament. After winning the World Cup in 2014, the Germans endured consecutive group-stage exits in 2018 and 2022, leading to significant changes throughout the program. Sunday’s result will only strengthen belief that they can make a deep run in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Germany next face Ivory Coast in Toronto before closing Group E play against Ecuador. Argentina, meanwhile, open its own campaign against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on Tuesday.

Messi and his teammates enter the tournament carrying the expectations that come with being defending world champions after their triumph in Qatar four years ago.

Germany may have delivered an early warning to the rest of the field, but Argentina will have an opportunity of their own to make a statement when they begin the defense of their crown.