Overview
- Germany routed Curacao 7-1 on Sunday as Kai Havertz played every minute, scored from the penalty spot before half-time and added a chip in the 88th minute to finish with two goals and the Player of the Match award.
- Some German outlets questioned Havertz’s overall visibility in the game despite his finishing, while other outlets and pundits gave higher marks and praise for his composure in front of goal.
- Former international Thomas Muller publicly called Havertz an “anchor player” and urged he be used as the starting No.9, a view echoed by pundits who point to his recent strong club form at Arsenal.
- The lopsided opening win gives Germany a significant boost to their tournament goal difference and improves their chances of advancing from a group that includes Ivory Coast on June 20 and Ecuador on June 25.
- Havertz’s two-goal start feeds talk of a Golden Boot challenge and raises his standing with fans and managers, as his club success and World Cup form now reinforce his role for both Arsenal and Germany.