The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off with a fairytale matchup as Curacao, the tournament's smallest nation by population, faces four-time champions Germany. Meanwhile, Iran is set to arrive in the United States for their opening match amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

• Curacao, with a population of just 160,000, makes its World Cup debut thanks to the expanded 48-team format.
• The match is described as a "David and Goliath" encounter by Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, while Curacao coach Dick Advocaat, the oldest coach in World Cup history at 78, hopes his team can "steal some points".
• Iran will play New Zealand in Los Angeles, marking the first time a World Cup host has hosted a nation it is at war with.