Nigeria, June 15 -- Germany launched their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion on Sunday, cruising to a 7-1 victory over tournament debutants Curacao in a Group E encounter that also showcased the influence of players of Nigerian heritage on football's biggest stage.

Two players with Nigerian roots, Felix Nmecha and Jamal Musiala, were among the scorers as the four-time world champions underlined their title credentials with a dominant display.

The goal scoring exploits of the duo comes barely 24 hours after Folarin Balogun set the tone with a brace for the United States in their opening game against Paraguay.

In Sunday's match, Germany wasted little time asserting their authority. Nmecha, whose father is Nigerian, opened ...