Manuel Neuer Set to Start as Germany Faces Curacao in 2026 World Cup Opener
Germany will start goalkeeper Manuel Neuer in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against debutants Curacao on June 14. Neuer, 40, has recovered from a recent calf injury and returns after nearly two years out of international play, marking his fifth World Cup appearance. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann emphasized Neuer's fitness and leadership, while Curacao, led by 78-year-old coach Dick Advocaat, aims to challenge despite being underdogs as the smallest nation by population to qualify.