Sarpreet Singh Becomes First Indian-Origin World Cup Starter

New Zealand attacking midfielder Sarpreet Singh etched his name into football history by becoming the first player of Indian origin to start a FIFA World Cup match. The 27-year-old featured in New Zealand’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G opener against Iran in Los Angeles, helping his side secure a hard-fought 2-2 draw.

Key Highlights

• Sarpreet Singh became first Indian-origin footballer to start a FIFA World Cup match.
• New Zealand midfielder played against Iran, creating history at World Cup 2026.

Born in Auckland to Punjabi parents, Sarpreet was named in the starting lineup by New Zealand head coach Darren Bazeley and played nearly the entire match before being substituted in the 90th minute. Wearing the iconic No. 10 jersey, he was a key figure in New Zealand’s attacking setup and registered three attempts on goal during the contest.

Strong Performance in World Cup Debut

Operating as an attacking midfielder in New Zealand’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Sarpreet played a crucial role in linking midfield and attack. One of his best opportunities came in the 61st minute when he tested the Iranian goalkeeper, although he was unable to find the back of the net.

Despite Iran fighting back twice from a goal down, New Zealand managed to earn a valuable point from the match. The Kiwis will now turn their attention to their second Group G fixture against Egypt in Vancouver on June 21.

Joins Exclusive List of Indian-Origin World Cup Players

Sarpreet’s achievement marks a significant moment for the global Indian diaspora in football. Before the 2026 tournament, the only player of Indian descent to have appeared in a FIFA World Cup match was former French midfielder Vikash Dhorasoo.

Dhorasoo, whose family roots trace back to Andhra Pradesh, represented France at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. However, his appearances were limited to brief substitute roles in two group-stage matches.

By starting and playing almost the full match against Iran, Sarpreet has become the first footballer of Indian origin to feature in a World Cup starting XI.

From Mumbai to Bayern Munich

Sarpreet's journey has included notable milestones both in India and Europe. In 2018, he played in the Intercontinental Cup in Mumbai, where he impressed against India and provided two assists in New Zealand’s victory over the hosts.

A year later, he became the first player of Indian descent to play in Germany’s Bundesliga after making his debut for Bayern Munich. Initially joining Bayern Munich’s reserve side from Wellington Phoenix, Sarpreet’s performances earned him opportunities with the senior team under then-manager Hansi Flick.

He later became part of Bayern Munich’s Bundesliga-winning squad during the 2019-20 season and made a senior start against SC Freiburg.

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Career Revival Ahead of World Cup

Following spells in Portugal and Serbia, Sarpreet returned to New Zealand this year, joining Wellington Phoenix on loan from Serbian club FK TSC. His World Cup participation comes after overcoming an injury setback that sidelined him for nearly eight weeks earlier in the year.

The midfielder returned to action in April and subsequently earned selection in New Zealand’s 26-man FIFA World Cup squad. To date, he has represented New Zealand 24 times at senior international level, scoring three goals.

Growing Indian Representation at FIFA World Cup 2026

Sarpreet is not the only player of Indian heritage making headlines at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Australia's Nishan Velupillay recently made his World Cup debut after coming off the bench in his side’s victory over Turkiye.

Additionally, Samuel Moutoussamy of DR Congo and Qatar’s Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid are part of their respective national squads, highlighting the growing presence of players with Indian roots on football’s biggest stage.

Sarpreet Singh’s historic World Cup start represents a landmark achievement not only for New Zealand football but also for aspiring footballers of Indian origin worldwide, demonstrating the expanding influence of the Indian diaspora in global football.