Germany’s forward Thomas Mueller (R) controls the ball as Portugal’s defender Ricardo Costa challenges during the Group G football match between Germany and Portugal at the Fonte Nova Arena in Salvador on June 16, 2014, during the 2014 FIFA World Cup. AFP PHOTO / FRANCISCO LEONG

Thomas Müller scored the first hattrick of the 2014 FIFA World Cup to help Germany ease to a commanding 4-0 win over Portugal in the opening Group G match.

The match began on a frantic note and Portugal were fortunate not to go behind after Sami Khedira hit a first-time shot wide following a poor clearance from Portugal goalkeeper Rui Patricio who was well off his line.

Portugal then came close to breaking the deadlock right after but Nani’s shot from the edge of the area went just over Manuel Neuer’s goal.

Germany would break the deadlock after 12 minutes through Bayern Munich midfielder Thomas Müller’s penalty after Khedira was brought down in the area.

Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels made it 2-0 for Germany just past the half hour mark with a powerful header off a cornerkick by Toni Kroos.

Real Madrid defender Pepe then received a straight red card for violent conduct against Müller, headbutting the German midfielder who was down on the pitch after being hit in the face by the Portuguese player.

With the half-time whistle approaching, Müller got his second of the game and Germany’s third, hitting home a half volley after Bruno Alves’ poor clearance fell perfectly for him.

Müller wrapped up his hattrick with 12 minutes left on the clock, scrambling home from close range after substitute Andre Schürrle’s pass evaded Patricio’s gloves.