World Cup 2026: Jonathan Tah insists Germany must stay sharp against debutants Curacao

Germany head into their World Cup Group E opener against Curacao determined to avoid any repeat of their recent tournament struggles, with defender Jonathan Tah insisting the four-time champions will not slip into complacency despite widespread expectation of a comfortable victory.

Curacao, the smallest nation ever to reach the World Cup finals, arrive in the group stage as clear underdogs, but Germany are treating Sunday’s clash in Houston with caution as they seek a strong start after shock first-round exits in 2018 and 2022.

Tah calls for focus despite underdogs tag

“We had a team discussion yesterday on Curacao, and it is a good team with players who have been trained in the Netherlands,” Tah told a press conference.

“But we are the favourites, and I am confident we will win the match.”

He added that Germany’s internal discussions have been centred on maintaining focus and respecting the opposition, even if expectations remain firmly on a winning start to the campaign.

Schlotterbeck backs quality and ‘German virtues’

Fellow defender Nico Schlotterbeck highlighted the balance within the squad and the belief that Germany have the tools to compete at the highest level again after recent disappointments.

“I see in the Germany team many players with a lot of quality, a lot of players at their peak and a few playing their last World Cup,” said fellow Germany defender Nico Schlotterbeck.

“You have a mix that is really good. Everyone is just looking forward to it.”

He further stressed that the squad’s mentality has shifted positively, with players embracing expectations rather than fearing them.

Heat and expectations no excuse for Germany

Germany’s preparations have also included adapting to sweltering conditions in Houston, where temperatures are expected to reach around 30 degrees Celsius, though players insist focus remains solely on securing three points in their opening fixture.

“There is no pressure. We are going into this with confidence, and on Sunday, we want to show how good we are,” Schlotterbeck said.

“There is no motivation to show everyone what we can do (after the two World Cup first-round exits),” Schlotterbeck said.

“We should not be hiding from anyone. We are a top, top, top team, and we have been showing the German virtues on the pitch once again after a very long time.”

“We have discipline, passion and ability to resist, and if we show our German virtues, then we are well placed.”

Germany also face Ivory Coast and Ecuador in Group E, completing a demanding group phase.