The first games of the World Cup have brought some surprises, including a stoppage-time goal from Qatar’s Boualem Khoukhi that brought the 2022 World Cup hosts level with Switzerland. Brazil also had to battle back after Morocco stunned them with a goal before the first hydration break, with both matches ending in 1-1 draws.

Debutants Take the Stage

Four debutants will be stepping foot on the global stage this year, including Cape Verde, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and Curaçao. Curaçao, the smallest nation by population to ever play in a World Cup, will face Germany in Houston. The team has been building a squad capable of qualifying for a World Cup by tapping into the Dutch diaspora and signing up players with Curaçaoan roots.

Several Dutch legends have also taken turns trying to develop the team, such as former managers Guus Hiddink and Patrick Kluivert. Now, though, it’s down to veteran coach Dick Advocaat. The 78-year-old has taken several nations to World Cups over the course of his career and has now been entrusted with Curaçao soccer’s biggest moment.

Other Matches

On Sunday, there are several other matches taking place, including a World Cup debutant taking on a powerhouse, two dark horses meeting in Texas, and two matchups that have plenty of intrigue despite flying under the radar a little bit. The Netherlands and Japan will meet in Dallas, while Ecuador will face an African nation in Philadelphia.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.