The New Zealand national football team All Whites have been making waves in the FIFA World Cup 2026, and one player who has caught the attention of fans worldwide is defender Tim Payne. Payne, who plays for Wellington Phoenix in Australia's A-League Men, was dubbed the 'least known player' in the tournament by Argentinian commentator El Scarso, but has since gained over 5 million Instagram followers. The 32-year-old from Auckland, New Zealand, has 52 career caps for his country and has scored three goals, including one in New Zealand's 7-0 win over Fiji in World Cup qualifiers. Payne's rise to fame has been nothing short of remarkable, with his Instagram following growing from less than 5,000 to over 5 million in a matter of days. He has become one of the most followed players at the World Cup, and his story has inspired fans around the world. So, what's behind Payne's sudden surge in popularity? It all started when El Scarso, a social media personality, called Payne the 'least known player' in the tournament, sparking a wave of support from fans who felt the comment was unfair. Payne has since met El Scarso and thanked him for the attention, saying it has been a 'crazy ride' but he is grateful for the opportunity to showcase his skills on the world stage. As the New Zealand national football team All Whites prepare to take on Iran in their opening match, Payne's story is a reminder that even the most unlikely players can make a big impact. With his newfound fame, Payne is now among the most followed Kiwis on Instagram, and his influence is set to continue growing as the tournament progresses. The New Zealand national football team All Whites will be looking to make a strong start to their campaign, and with players like Payne on their side, they have a good chance of making a lasting impression. Payne's journey is a reminder of the power of social media and the impact it can have on a player's career. As he takes to the field in the FIFA World Cup 2026, fans around the world will be watching with interest to see how he performs. And with his growing fan base, Payne is sure to be a player to watch in the tournament.