Germany have announced their starting lineup for today's Group E opener against Curacao. Coach Julian Nagelsmann deployed a 4-2-3-1 formation: Neuer (goalkeeper), Kimmich-Tah-Schlotterbeck-Brown (defence), Pavlovic-Nmecha (midfield), Sane-Musiala-Wirtz (attack), and Havertz as the lone striker.
Veteran goalkeeper Neuer, 38, makes his 19th World Cup appearance. The attacking trio of Musiala, Wirtz, and Havertz provides technical control and pace. Substitutes include Malick Thiaw (AC Milan), Antonio Rudiger (Juventus target), and Leon Goretzka.
Curacao, the smallest nation ever to reach a World Cup, fielded a 4-4-2 formation with Locadia and Hansen in attack, drawing on players from PSV and Sparta Rotterdam.
Betting impact: Germany's attacking depth and Neuer's experience favour heavy goal-scoring markets. Curacao's defensive limitations suggest unders on their goal tally and overs on German scoring are likely profitable positions.
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