Quiz Time: Can You Name the Germany XI That Crushed Brazil 7-1 in 2014?

It remains one of the most staggering results in World Cup history, a night when the football world sat in disbelief. On July 8, 2014, at the Estádio Mineirão in Belo Horizonte, Germany inflicted a 7-1 defeat on Brazil in the semifinal — a scoreline that still feels surreal every time it's mentioned. But for all its infamy, how many of us can actually name the Germany XI that produced that masterclass? A new quiz is testing fans' knowledge, and it's harder than you might think.

The historic demolition

Brazil, the tournament hosts, were already reeling without their talisman Neymar (injured) and captain Thiago Silva (suspended). Germany, a well-oiled machine under Joachim Löw, exploited every weakness from the get-go. The first goal came after just 11 minutes from Thomas Müller, then Miroslav Kloke made history with his 16th World Cup goal. But the real carnage unfolded in a six-minute spell either side of half-time, with Toni Kroos scoring twice and Sami Khedira adding a fifth. By the 29th minute, it was 5-0. André Schürrle came off the bench to net two more in the second half, including a stunning volley. Oscar's late consolation goal was barely a footnote.

The starting lineup that did the damage

Löw fielded a 4-2-3-1 formation, and the core of that side went on to win the World Cup a week later. In goal stood Manuel Neuer, with Philipp Lahm at right-back and Benedikt Höwedes on the left. The centre-back pairing was Jérôme Boateng and Mats Hummels. In midfield, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Sami Khedira provided the engine, while Toni Kroos pulled the strings. Mesut Özil operated from the left, Thomas Müller from the right, and Miroslav Klose led the line. It's a lineup stuffed with legends, but can you pick all 11 from memory without peeking?

Why it still matters

That night at the Mineirão — known in Brazil as the Mineirazo — is a scar on the nation's football psyche. It was the first time Brazil had lost a competitive home match since 1975, and it ended their dream of a sixth World Cup on home soil. For Germany, it was a statement performance that showcased their tactical superiority and depth. The result also sparked a broader conversation about Brazil's footballing identity and the pressure of hosting a tournament. Years later, it remains a benchmark for complete team performances and a cautionary tale about the fragility of even the most decorated sides.

Looking ahead, this quiz serves as more than just a trip down memory lane. It's a reminder of how quickly football can change. Germany would win the World Cup, but their subsequent tournaments have been disappointing. Brazil have rebuilt under new management, yet the ghost of that 7-1 still lingers. For fans, testing their knowledge of that lineup is a way to connect with a moment that defined an era — and perhaps realize that even the most memorable games can fade from memory. How many of the starting XI can you name without Googling?