According to broadcast numbers, the opening game of the World Cup is the second-most watched football match after the final. If you miss it, there’s a good chance that you’re, perhaps, not that into the game. Or that you live under a rock.

Spain vs The Netherlands

12:30 am, June 14

For the Dutch, revenge will best be served hot. Having lost the final to Spain in 2010, they kickstart their campaign against the Invincibles. For many, including the players, perhaps, this is the only match worth watching in Group B.

England vs Italy

3:30 am, June 15

The British press usually reckon that England gets the toughest draw, or in World Cup terms, the Group of Death. Group D may well be so this time with Italy, Uruguay and England (seven World Cups between them) in the fray.

Nigeria vs Argentina

9:30 pm, June 25

At the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championships, Argentina beat Nigeria 2-1 to hoist the trophy. Voted the second-best player of the tournament, Jon Obi Mikel promised revenge on Lionel Messi on the world stage. That time is now.

Germany vs USA

9:30 pm, June 26

The biggest criticism against Jurgen Klinsmann in the 2006 World Cup was that the Germany coach spent too much time at his adopted home of California. Perhaps, the current USA coach was plotting for this very moment.

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