Curacao, the smallest nation in World Cup history both in size and population, faces a daunting task in its opening match against four-time champion Germany on Sunday in Houston. The Caribbean island, roughly the size of New Orleans with about 156,000 residents, is one of four first-time qualifiers in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Late Drama for Qatar
Qatar, which lost all three matches as host four years ago, appeared headed for another defeat in its 2026 opener against Switzerland. However, Boualem Khoukhi scored a header in the fourth minute of stoppage time to earn a 1-1 draw, giving Qatar its first World Cup point. Switzerland midfielder Granit Xhaka expressed frustration, saying, "We're looking at ourselves."
Brazil Extends Streak
Brazil extended its unbeaten streak in World Cup openers to 21 matches, but Morocco made it difficult. Ismael Saibari gave Morocco the lead in the 21st minute, but Vinícius Júnior equalized in the 32nd minute, resulting in a 1-1 draw. Brazil avoided its first opening loss since 1934.
Scotland and Australia Win
Scotland, making its first World Cup appearance since 1998, beat Haiti 1-0 thanks to John McGinn's deflected shot in the 28th minute, placing the Scots atop Group C. Australia spoiled Turkiye's return to the World Cup after 24 years, winning 2-0 in Vancouver with goals from Nestory Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe.
Host Nations Perform Well
The three host countries fared well in their openers. Mexico kicked off the tournament with a dominant 2-0 win over South Africa at Azteca Stadium. Canada rallied for a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto, while the United States matched its biggest World Cup victory with a 4-1 win over Paraguay in Inglewood, California.
Germany vs. Curacao Preview
Curacao's coach Dick Advocaat, at 78 the oldest coach in World Cup history, acknowledged the challenge: "Germany are of course clear favorites in the group. Starting off against Germany is fantastic. We will find out immediately where we stand." Germany, which failed to advance from the group stage in 2018 and 2022 after winning the 2014 title, has added motivation.
Other Sunday Matches
The Netherlands faces Japan in Dallas in a match featuring two teams with high aspirations. The Dutch, three-time runners-up, are seeking their first title. Japan, in its eighth straight World Cup, aims for a third consecutive knockout-round appearance. Ecuador carries a 19-game unbeaten streak into its match against Ivory Coast in Philadelphia. Sweden, despite a poor qualifying campaign, meets Tunisia in Monterrey, Mexico.
