Matchday 4 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 brought Groups E and F to life, and it delivered everything — a goal avalanche, a historic first, a last-gasp equaliser, and a stoppage-time winner. Germany announced themselves as serious contenders, Japan snatched a dramatic point from the Netherlands, the Ivory Coast edged a tight battle with Ecuador, and Sweden ran riot against Tunisia. Here is a full recap of the day’s action.
Germany 7-1 Curaçao
Germany could hardly have made a louder statement. The four-time champions overwhelmed tournament debutants Curaçao 7-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston, racing into a commanding lead and never letting up. Julian Nagelsmann’s young, dynamic side showcased exactly why many consider them genuine contenders for the trophy, with their attacking talent proving far too much for the newcomers.
Yet amid the rout came a moment Curaçao will treasure forever: Livano Comenencia struck to register the smallest nation’s first-ever World Cup goal, a piece of history that sparked celebrations despite the scoreline. For a country making its tournament debut, it was a memory to last a lifetime, even on a chastening night.
Netherlands 2-2 Japan
The pick of the day produced the drama it promised. Japan came from behind to earn a thrilling 2-2 draw with the Netherlands at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, with Daichi Kamada netting a late equaliser to stun the three-time runners-up. The Samurai Blue once again proved their reputation as fearless giant-killers, refusing to be beaten by one of the tournament favourites.
The Netherlands will feel they should have closed out the contest, but Japan’s persistence and quality earned a deserved share of the points. The result blew Group F wide open and served notice that Hajime Moriyasu’s side are a threat to anyone in this tournament.
Ivory Coast 1-0 Ecuador
In a tight, tactical encounter at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the Ivory Coast claimed a priceless 1-0 win over Ecuador thanks to a dramatic late strike. Amad Diallo settled a cagey contest with a 90th-minute winner, sending the reigning African champions to the top of Group E alongside Germany on goal difference.
It was a result that rewarded the Ivory Coast’s patience and quality in a match between two well-organised, defensively sound sides. For Ecuador, tipped by many as a surprise package, it was a frustrating night that leaves them with work to do.
Sweden 5-1 Tunisia
Sweden closed out Matchday 4 in emphatic fashion, brushing aside Tunisia 5-1 at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey. Roared on by a vibrant crowd, the Swedes unleashed their attacking firepower from the outset and never looked back, with their forwards causing Tunisia problems all evening.
The result was a statement of intent from a Sweden side many had overlooked, and it left them top of Group F after the opening round. Tunisia, by contrast, were left to regroup after a chastening start to their campaign.
Group standings impact
The day reshaped both groups. In Group E, Germany and the Ivory Coast share the lead on three points, with Germany ahead on a vastly superior goal difference after their seven-goal haul; Ecuador and Curaçao sit on zero. In Group F, Sweden top the standings on three points, the Netherlands and Japan share second on a point apiece, and Tunisia prop up the group.
What’s next
Attention now turns to Groups G and H, which begin on June 15 with European champions Spain facing debutants Cape Verde and Belgium taking on Egypt. The group stage continues to build towards the knockout rounds, with every result tightening the race for a place in the new 32-team bracket.
Frequently asked questions
What were the World Cup 2026 results on Matchday 4? Germany beat Curaçao 7-1, the Netherlands drew 2-2 with Japan, the Ivory Coast beat Ecuador 1-0, and Sweden beat Tunisia 5-1.
Did Curaçao score against Germany? Yes. Livano Comenencia scored Curaçao’s first-ever World Cup goal in their 7-1 defeat to Germany.
Who scored the winner for Ivory Coast against Ecuador? Amad Diallo scored a 90th-minute winner to give the Ivory Coast a 1-0 victory.
Who leads Group E and Group F after Matchday 4? Germany lead Group E on goal difference from the Ivory Coast, while Sweden top Group F.
Follow every result
Keep up with every score and the latest group tables on our Live Standings page, and read full match previews and reports on the Blog.