The 2010 champions in South Africa and pretournament favourite, Spain, as well as the Red Devils of Belgium will both be expected to start with victories. However, World Cup history has repeatedly shown that nothing can be taken for granted on football's biggest stage.

Spain will kick off their tournament in Atlanta against World Cup debutants Cape Verde at 18:00. The Spaniards are among the favourites to challenge for the trophy and will be eager to make an early statement, but Cape Verde arrive with nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has warned his players against complacency.

“Every team at a World Cup deserves respect. We know the quality we have, but we also know that success comes from concentration and hard work.”

Cape Verde captain Ryan Mendes believes his side can rise to the occasion.

“This is a historic moment for our country. We respect Spain, but we are not here just to participate. We want to compete.”

The second match of the evening sees Belgium face Egypt at 21:00 in Seattle in what could prove to be one of the most intriguing encounters of the opening round.

Belgium remain one of Europe's strongest teams despite several members of their celebrated golden generation nearing the twilight of their international careers. Egypt, meanwhile, will be looking to carry African hopes and secure a positive result against one of the continent's toughest opponents.

Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne stressed the importance of making a winning start.

“The first match can set the tone for the whole tournament. We know Egypt will be organised and dangerous, so we need to be at our best.”

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan is confident his side can compete. “Belgium have world-class players, but we have our own ambitions. We have prepared well and we believe we can challenge them.”

Group H's second fixture follows at midnight when Saudi Arabia take on two-time world champions Uruguay. The South Americans boast a proud World Cup pedigree and will be aiming to begin their campaign with three points, although Saudi Arabia have built a reputation for upsetting fancied opponents at major tournaments.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa expects a stern examination. “At a World Cup there are no easy matches. Every opponent presents different challenges and we must be fully focused.”

The day's action concludes at 3:00 on Tuesday morning when Iran meet New Zealand in Group G. Both teams will view the encounter as a crucial opportunity to claim valuable points before facing the group's stronger sides later in the tournament.

New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley is relishing the challenge. “We've worked hard to get here and the players are excited. We know Iran is a quality side, but we're ready for the challenge.”

Monday's fixtures follow an entertaining Sunday programme that saw Germany hammer Curaçao 7–1 and Sweden cruise to a 5–1 victory over Tunisia. With the tournament already producing goals and surprises in abundance, another captivating night of World Cup football awaits.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek  sm