When Sweden takes the field against Tunisia in the 2026 World Cup, it will be back on the game's biggest stage for the first time in eight years.

Yasin Ayari scored twice and Sweden showed it belonged at the 2026 World Cup, pounding Tunisia 5-1 on Sunday night to move atop Group F.

All eyes will be on Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal -- who is said to be in "perfect condition" by manager Luis de la Fuente, but will likely start this one from the bench.

Iraq and Norway both return to the FIFA World Cup stage after prolonged absences, and take on each other in their tournament opener in Boston on Tuesday evening, with the European team coming into this as the favourites.

Haunted by back-to-back group stage exits at the last two tournaments, Germany will be aiming to make a much stronger start to this World Cup as it gets its campaign underway on Saturday against Curaçao -- the smallest nation to ever grace soccer's biggest stage.

Iran opened its politically charged World Cup with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand on Monday night, overcoming two deficits and getting the tying goal from Mohammad Mohebbi in the 64th minute.

The Spanish won this tournament for the first time in their history in 2010, and will be hoping to add to their Euro 2024 glory with a triumph in North America.