Welcome to Mirror Sport’s coverage of the 2026 World Cup on Monday, June 15.
Iran’s national team has landed in the United States for their initial match of the 2026 World Cup amidst visa refusals and strict travel restrictions. Meanwhile, fans are eagerly watching Spain, the tournament favorites, as they commence their journey against Cape Verde, one of the smallest nations in the competition. Despite being tipped for success, Spain faced minor injury concerns with two key young players, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Both players sustained injuries but are cleared to play in the first game, although they will not be in the starting lineup.
Iran is set to start their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles at 2 am UK time. Due to political unrest in the Middle East, Iran has faced a challenging buildup to the tournament, with their base camp located in Mexico and the team shuttling into the US for matches on the same day.
Recent developments show a peace deal signed between Donald Trump and Iran, aiming to resolve conflicts. However, certain restrictions may apply to individuals associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Notably, 11 members of Iran’s World Cup delegation are prohibited from traveling to the US, with accusations of visa denial for crucial support staff.
In other matches, Belgium will play against Egypt at 8 pm UK time, while Saudi Arabia and Uruguay will kick off their campaigns at 11 pm UK time. Sweden’s Yasin Ayari made his World Cup debut, scoring in a 5-1 victory over Tunisia but refrained from celebrating the goal. Ayari, born in Sweden to a Tunisian father and Moroccan mother, opted to represent Sweden over Tunisia in international competitions.
Jordan Henderson has expressed confidence in Jude Bellingham’s ability to bring a unique edge to England’s World Cup aspirations. England, under Thomas Tuchel, will face Croatia in their Group L opener in Dallas, Texas. Bellingham is a key topic of discussion as he competes with Morgan Rogers for the number 10 position in the team.
FIFA has purportedly granted Donald Trump permission to present the World Cup trophy to the winning team in the final match, potentially creating another controversial moment. Croatia anticipates a challenging encounter against England, notably facing Harry Kane, whom defender Duje Caleta-Car hails as a “master of the game.”
Overall, the World Cup spectacle promises thrilling matches and newsworthy events as the tournament progresses.