Neuer returns, Musiala starts in Germany's World Cup opener against Curacao
Houston, June 14
Germany attacking midfielder Jamal Musiala has been handed a starting role for Sunday's FIFA World Cup Group E opener against Curacao, despite still working his way back to peak form after a broken leg sidelined him for more than six months last year.
In a notable selection call, Germany's in-form striker Deniz Undav, who finished as the Bundesliga's second-highest scorer this season behind Harry Kane, starts on the bench.
Veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, the sole remaining member of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning squad, is set to make his first international appearance since coming out of retirement.
The 40-year-old was surprisingly recalled to the national team less than a month ago and has been preferred over Oliver Baumann, who had been expected to start the tournament as Germany's first-choice goalkeeper.
For Curacao, head coach Dick Advocaat has named experienced midfielder Tahith Chong in the starting lineup as the Caribbean nation, the smallest country ever to qualify for a FIFA World Cup, prepares for its historic tournament debut.
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.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Musiala starting after that serious leg fracture? That's brave. But Undav deserves a place too - he scored so many goals in Bundesliga. Germans have depth like India's IT sector - too many options! 😄
Baumann must be gutted after being dropped at the last minute. Neuer's comeback is romantic but risky - hope it doesn't backfire. Germany's lineup looks strong though. Excited to see how Curacao handles the pressure.
Neuer at 40 is like Dhoni playing for India at 40 - legend comes back when needed. But Oliver Baumann was consistent all year. This is a gamble. Hope Neuer's experience matters more than his age. Musiala and Wirtz together? Dangerous combo! 💥
Curacao's qualification is a fairy tale. Population of just 150,000! Dick Advocaat is a seasoned coach. Chong in midfield gives them a spark. Germany should win easily but respect to the underdogs. Every World Cup needs such stories.
Undav on bench is surprising. He was in top form all season! But Havertz and Musiala are class. Germany's midfield looks packed - Kimmich, Wirtz, Sane. They need to click as a team. Curacao will defend deep - Germany's patience will be tested. 🤞
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