Did you know that England’s first World Cup game ever was against Chile in 1950? Not Brazil, not Italy, but Chile. It was a 2-0 win, but nobody remembers it because the USA match happened next and stole the headlines like a bad celebrity divorce.
Also, England have never lost their first game of a World Cup when they’ve been defending champions. They won their first game in 1966 (against Uruguay, a 0-0 snooze-fest) and in 1998 (against Tunisia, a 2-0 win). So, statistically, if they’re wearing a crown, they’re invincible for 90 minutes. Take that, history books.
The Final Countdown (How to Prepare Yourself)
So, to recap: their first game is June 13, 2026, against an opponent we won’t know until the universe decides. The best way to prepare is to practice your “I’m not stressed” face, stockpile tea bags, and rehearse your excuses for calling in sick the next day.
And remember: it’s the World Cup. Anything can happen. A team of accountants from Antarctica could beat Brazil in the final and make total sense. For England, the first game is just the start of a beautiful, painful, hilarious rollercoaster. Buckle up, lads and lasses. It’s going to be a ride.
