New Zealand begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign against Iran on Monday. During the match, many in India would be keeping a close eye on one familiar face in the All Whites squad — Sarpreet Singh.The Auckland-born attacking midfielder, whose parents are of Punjabi origin, has emerged as one of the most successful footballers of Indian descent in the modern game and will be hoping to help New Zealand make an impact at only their third World Cup appearance.Born and raised in New Zealand, Singh has maintained a unique connection with India throughout his career. In 2018, he featured in the Intercontinental Cup in Mumbai, where New Zealand fielded an Under-23 development squad. Having made his senior international debut earlier that year, Singh lined up against India and captain Sunil Chhetri.The tournament proved memorable for the young midfielder. He scored against Kenya and provided both assists in New Zealand's 2-1 victory over India. While India lifted the title, New Zealand finished third in the four-nation competition.A year later, Singh made history by becoming the first player of Indian descent to play in Germany's Bundesliga when he debuted for Bayern Munich in 2019. Having joined the German giants from A-League club Wellington Phoenix, he made his first-team debut as a substitute against Werder Bremen.Initially part of Bayern's reserve side in the third division, Singh's impressive performances earned him opportunities with the senior team under then-manager Hansi Flick. He made his first senior start against SC Freiburg in June 2020 and was part of Bayern's Bundesliga-winning squad during the 2019-20 season.Following his spell in Germany, Singh spent a season with Portuguese club União de Leiria before joining Serbian SuperLiga side FK TSC in 2025. Earlier this year, he returned to Wellington Phoenix on loan from the Serbian club.His journey to the World Cup was not without setbacks. A medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury suffered in February sidelined him for eight weeks, casting doubt over his participation in the tournament. However, he returned to action in April and did enough to secure a place in New Zealand's 26-man squad for football's biggest event.The 27-year-old has earned 24 caps and scored three goals for New Zealand, while also representing his country at the FIFA U-20 World Cups in 2017 and 2019, as well as the Paris 2024 Olympics.Singh is also set to create history at the World Cup."I've had quite a few people tell me that I am the first Sikh footballer at the World Cup," he said. "I carry a huge responsibility and pride, representing my culture and my people. To be the first is very special. I also want to pave the way for the next generation, so we have more from the Indian community coming through and being able to play on the world stage."In a country where rugby and cricket traditionally dominate the sporting landscape, Singh's football journey began when his parents enrolled him at the Wynton Rufer Soccer Academy at the age of seven. His talent was evident from an early age, leading to a senior debut in Australia's top division at just 16 before attracting the attention of Bayern Munich scouts.Reflecting on his World Cup selection, Singh highlighted the importance of resilience after his injury setback."I've played a big role within the national team for the last couple of years. Every time I've played for the national team, I've done well. But it's football — you always have to perform at a high level to get selected. The injury didn't help, but once I knew my recovery timeline, I did everything I could to get back."New Zealand face a daunting challenge in Group G alongside Iran, Belgium and Egypt. Ranked 85th in the world, the All Whites are considered underdogs, but Singh believes they can spring a surprise."Our biggest goal is to get out of the group. It's a very tough group, but it's the World Cup and every team is of a high standard. We might go a little under the radar for some people, but hopefully we can deliver strong performances and do something special."The 2026 tournament marks New Zealand's third World Cup appearance after 1982 and 2010. In South Africa 16 years ago, the All Whites exited in the group stage but remained unbeaten, drawing against Slovakia, Italy and Paraguay.This time, New Zealand will be targeting their first-ever World Cup victory and a place in the knockout rounds. And as they take on Iran in their opening match, many in India will be watching closely, cheering on a player whose roots connect him to their own.