The opening match in this group pits Germany (ranked 10th) against Curaçao (ranked 82nd). In what world is such a mismatch justified?
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2022 Tournament | World Cup Index
Germany
Curaçao
Nmecha put Germany in front early on (6') but in the 21st minute Livano Comenencia equalised with a deflected shot that sent a section of th crowd into raptures. The joy was short lived however as Germany turned on the pressure, Nico Schlotterbeck heading home unopposed in the 38th minute to restore Germany's lead. Hevertz converted a penalty in added time and in the second half Germany were ruthless, scoring four more.
Côte d'Ivoire
Ecuador
In a wildly exciting first half Ecuador hit the bar twice as the game flowed from one end to the other. Both teams hit the woodwork in the second half but as full-time approached a goalless draw was on the cards until Amad, on as a substitute, expertly guided his shot into the far corner.
Germany
Côte d'Ivoire
Although Germany had the best of the early chances and even had a goal ruled out for a foul on the goalkeeper, Cote d'Ivoire showed serious intent and deserved to take the lead on the half hour when Diallo's close range shot was blocked and Kessié followed up. The game was an absorbing spectacle with Germany pressing for a goal while the African team challenged for every loose ball, harassed the Germans in possession and switched quickly to the attack when the opportunity arrived. They did miss some good chances and this would prove costly. It is a cliché that Germany don't know when they're beaten so it was no surprise when Undav scored in the 68th minute and went to score the winner in the 94th minute.
Ecuador
Curaçao
Ecuador started brightly and enjoyed the lion's share of possession. Over the course of the game they had 30 shots on goal and hit the woodwork three times but they were unable to find a way through largely thanks to a magnificent performance by Eloy Room in Curaçao's goal.
Curaçao
Côte d'Ivoire
Goals from Nicholas Pépé, one in each half, were enough to send Côte d'Ivoire into the knock stages for the first time in their history. With just one point to their name Curaçao were eliminated.
Ecuador
Germany
Germany were already through to the next round so the question was whether Ecuador, with just one point in the bag could get something from the game to get a third place finish. Sane put Germany ahead in the two minutes after the kick-off, rolling the ball beyond the goalkeeper from Florian Wirtz’s lay-off. Seven minutes later Nilson Angulo fired in the equaliser from just outside the box. Germany had a penalty award reversed by VAR after the restart. Then, in the 77th minute Plata got to a corner just ahead of Neuer and steered the ball into the goal.
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