Manuel Neuer said that one "can't really draw parallels" between the Germany squad at the 2026 World Cup and the one that claimed the title in Brazil in 2014, but stressed that "everything is possible with this team."
Germany started this year's tournament with a sensational 7-1 win over Curaçao on Sunday - the same score from the semi-finals in 2014 against then hosts Brazil.
It was also the first time since 2014 that the Germans have won their opening match at a World Cup.
"Starting a tournament like this is something very special. It gives you confidence and a sense of calm. Still, we know this wasn't the 7–1 semifinal against Brazil," he said after the match.
Neuer is returning to the national team after he had retired following Euro 2024 on home soil. The goalkeeper missed the tune-up matches before the tournament due to an injury but recovered in time for the World Cup opener.
He added that the win gives the team "confidence in its own strength." And he himself, since his return, has "gotten to know one or two players better on the field when it comes to winning matches."
