India, June 13 -- At the last two World Cups, Germany failed to win their first game and then crashed out at the group stage. It was scarcely believable because this is a team renowned for its machine-like precision and getting out of the group stage almost seemed to be a given until it was not.

The first game this time around seems less challenging. Curacao's meeting with Germany (world No.10) in Houston will mark the Caribbean nation's first-ever World Cup match. Ranked 82nd, Curacao is the smallest country by population to ever qualify for the FIFA World Cup and will run into one of the most celebrated sides in tournament history.

Germany have won four titles, earning runners-up and third place four times each and one fourth-place fi...