Sunday, June 14, 2026: Germany crush, the Netherlands stumble, Australia surprise

Australia opened the day with a 2-0 win over Turkey. The result mattered in Group D because it placed the Australians in the right lane after the United States had started so loudly. In this kind of group, it is not only about beating teams considered weaker on paper. It is about not letting direct rivals move ahead.

Germany then crushed Curacao 7-1. The score was huge, almost ruthless. Of course, the expected gap in quality has to be considered, but major nations can also stumble against smaller opponents. Germany left no space for doubt and immediately built a major goal difference.

The Netherlands had a much more turbulent night against Japan, drawing 2-2. It was entertaining for neutrals, but uncomfortable for a favourite. Japan reminded everyone that they remain very hard to disrupt and can turn a prestige fixture into a real trap.

Germany took an immediate hold on Group E, not only through three points but through the scale of the win. In a 48-team tournament, goal difference can matter when sorting qualified teams and the best third-place sides.

In Group F, the Dutch draw opened a gap. Sweden and Japan could both read it as an invitation. A favourite dropping two points early often turns a group into nervous ground.

The strongest signal came from Germany. This was not just a win, it was a performance of power.

Japan also deserve a strong mention. Holding the Netherlands in an open match showed competitive maturity. That kind of result changes the confidence of a group.

Netherlands against Sweden was already becoming a major appointment. For the Dutch, it was about correcting the start. For Sweden, the opportunity could be huge. In Group E, everyone would now be measured against the standard set by Germany.