glossary
×Group stage: multiple games played at the start of a World Cup, also known as round-robin matches, when teams are split into smaller sections and the losers of any one game are not immediately eliminated
Knockout stage: a single match where the losing team is eliminated
Penalty shoot-out: the final step in a tied game, after extra time, when each team completes a set number of shots on goal and the team with the most successful shots wins
*The format of the tournament was not the same every year.
brazil
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
3-time
champion
'78
'82
Pelé
'86
'90
2-time
champion
'94
'98
Garrincha
'02
'06
Top scorer
'10
Ronaldo
Nazario
'14
1950. With no one petitioning to host the first tournament after World War II, the World Cup was at risk of being canceled. In 1946, Brazil volunteered to host, saving that year's tournament.
2014. Protests and delays defined Brazil's hosting year in 2014. The country struggled with high building costs, deaths of construction workers, and police brutality.
Year
1930
brazil
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
host
1950. With no one petitioning to host the first tournament after World War II, the World Cup was at risk of being canceled. In 1946, Brazil volunteered to host, saving that year's tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1958. At 17, Pelé was the youngest player to participate in and win the World Cup with his team. He is also the only player in World Cup history to win three times.
'74
'78
82
'86
'90
'94
'98
2014. Protests and delays defined Brazil's hosting year in 2014. The country struggled with high building costs, deaths of construction workers, and police brutality.
'02
'06
'10
host
'14
Notable Players
3-time champion
2-time champion
Top scorer
Garrincha
Pelé
Ronaldo Nazario
1958–1970
1994–2006
1958–1966
Notable Players
3-time champion
2-time champion
Top scorer
brazil
Garrincha
Pelé
Ronaldo Nazario
World Cup 2018
1958–1970
1994–2006
1958–1966
host
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. With no one petitioning to host the first tournament after World War II, the World Cup was at risk of being canceled. In 1946, Brazil volunteered to host, saving that year's tournament.
1958. At 17, Pelé was the youngest player to participate in and win the World Cup with his team. He is also the only player in World Cup history to win three times.
2014. Protests and delays defined Brazil's hosting year in 2014. The country struggled with high building costs, deaths of construction workers, and police brutality.
Notable Players
Top scorer
3-time champion
2-time champion
Brazil
Pelé
Garrincha
Ronaldo Nazario
World Cup 2018
1958–1970
1994–2006
1958–1966
host
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. With no one petitioning to host the first tournament after World War II, the World Cup was at risk of being canceled. In 1946, Brazil volunteered to host, saving that year's tournament.
1958. At 17, Pelé was the youngest player to participate in and win the World Cup with his team. He is also the only player in World Cup history to win three times.
2014. Protests and delays defined Brazil's hosting year in 2014. The country struggled with high building costs, deaths of construction workers, and police brutality.
germany
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'74 champion
Franz
Beckenbauer
'78
'82
'86
'90
Most games
Lothar
Matthäus
'94
'98
'02
'06
Top scorer
Miroslav
Klose
'10
'14
1950. After World War II, Germany and Japan were banned from playing in the 1950 World Cup. Allies to Germany, such as Italy, were not banned from the tournament.
1994. Germany played for the first time as a reunified nation in 1994, combining the East and West Germany teams. The national team continued with the record of West Germany.
Year
1930
germany
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1950. After World War II, Germany and Japan were banned from playing in the 1950 World Cup. Allies to Germany, such as Italy, were not banned from the tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
host
1990. Franz Beckenbauer is one of only two men who have won the World Cup as both a player and a manager-and the only one to have won as both a team captain and manager.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1994. Germany played for the first time as a reunified nation in 1994, combining the East and West Germany teams. The national team continued with the record of West Germany.
'02
host
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'74 champion
Most games
Franz Beckenbauer
Miroslav Klose
Lothar Matthäus
1966-1974
1982-1998
2002-2014
Notable Players
Top scorer
'74 champion
Most games
germany
Franz Beckenbauer
Miroslav Klose
Lothar Matthäus
World Cup 2018
1966-1974
1982-1998
2002-2014
host
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. After World War II, Germany and Japan were banned from playing in the 1950 World Cup. Allies to Germany, such as Italy, were not banned from the tournament.
1990. Franz Beckenbauer is one of only two men who have won the World Cup as both a player and a manager-and the only one to have won as both a team captain and manager.
1994. Germany played for the first time as a reunified nation in 1994, combining the East and West Germany teams. The national team continued with the record of West Germany.
Notable Players
Top scorer
'74 champion
Most games
germany
Franz Beckenbauer
Lothar Matthäus
Miroslav Klose
World Cup 2018
1966-1974
2002-2014
1982-1998
host
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. After World War II, Germany and Japan were banned from playing in the 1950 World Cup. Allies to Germany, such as Italy, were not banned from the tournament.
1990. Franz Beckenbauer is one of only two men who have won the World Cup as both a player and a manager-and the only one to have won as both a team captain and manager.
1994. Germany played for the first time as a reunified nation in 1994, combining the East and West Germany teams. The national team continued with the record of West Germany.
Italy
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'82 champion
Paolo
Rossi
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94 finalist
Roberto
Baggio
'94
'98
'02
'06
'06 champion
Fabio
Cannavaro
'10
'14
1934. The second World Cup occurred in Italy during Benito Mussolini's fascist regime. Some believe he used the tournament to spread propaganda and swayed referees to favor Italy.
2006. Just before the World Cup, Italy's match-fixing scandal, known as Calciopoli, exploded into the soccer world. Despite the scandal, Italy won the tournament.
Year
1930
Italy
host
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1934. The second World Cup occurred in Italy during Benito Mussolini's fascist regime. Some believe he used the tournament to spread propaganda and swayed referees to favor Italy.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1938. Following their victory in 1938, Italian official and FIFA Vice President Ottorino Barassi hid the Cup in a shoebox under his bed during World War II to keep it safe from the Nazis.
'74
'78
'82
'86
host
'90
'94
'98
2006. Just before the World Cup, Italy's match-fixing scandal, known as Calciopoli, exploded into the soccer world. Despite the scandal, Italy won the tournament.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'82 champion
'94 finalist
'06 champion
Paolo Rossi
Fabio Cannavaro
Roberto Baggio
1978-1986
1990-1998
1998-2010
Notable Players
'06 champion
'82 champion
'94 finalist
Italy
Paolo Rossi
Fabio Cannavaro
Roberto Baggio
World Cup 2018
1978-1986
1990-1998
1998-2010
host
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1934. The second World Cup occurred in Italy during Benito Mussolini's fascist regime. Some believe he used the tournament to spread propaganda and swayed referees to favor Italy.
1938. Following their victory in 1938, Italian official and FIFA Vice President Ottorino Barassi hid the Cup in a shoebox under his bed during World War II to keep it safe from the Nazis.
2006. Just before the World Cup, Italy's match-fixing scandal, known as Calciopoli, exploded into the soccer world. Despite the scandal, Italy won the tournament.
Notable Players
'06 champion
'82 champion
'94 finalist
Italy
Paolo Rossi
Roberto Baggio
Fabio Cannavaro
World Cup 2018
1978-1986
1998-2010
1990-1998
host
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1934. The second World Cup occurred in Italy during Benito Mussolini's fascist regime. Some believe he used the tournament to spread propaganda and swayed referees to favor Italy.
1938. Following their victory in 1938, Italian official and FIFA Vice President Ottorino Barassi hid the Cup in a shoebox under his bed during World War II to keep it safe from the Nazis.
2006. Just before the World Cup, Italy's match-fixing scandal, known as Calciopoli, exploded into the soccer world. Despite the scandal, Italy won the tournament.
argentina
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'86 champion
'78
Diego
Maradona
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
'94
Gabriel
Batistuta
'98
'02
'06
'14 finalist
'10
Lionel
Messi
'14
1938. Argentina did not participate in the 1938 iteration of the World Cup, protesting the decision from FIFA to hold a second successive tournament in Europe.
1994. Diego Maradona led Argentina's national team to win the World Cup. Eight years later, he was removed from the World Cup after testing positive for stimulants banned by FIFA.
Year
1930
argentina
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1930. After losing to Uruguay 4-2 in the final match in Montevideo, some Argentine fans were so upset that they attacked the Uruguayan consulate in Argentina.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1938. Argentina did not participate in the 1938 iteration of the World Cup, protesting the decision from FIFA to hold a second successive tournament in Europe.
'74
host
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1994. Diego Maradona led Argentina's national team to win the World Cup. Eight years later, he was removed from the World Cup after testing positive for stimulants banned by FIFA.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 champion
'14 finalist
Gabriel Batistuta
Diego Maradona
Lionel Messi
1982-1994
2006-present
1994-2002
Notable Players
'86 champion
Top scorer
'14 finalist
argentina
Gabriel Batistuta
Diego Maradona
Lionel Messi
World Cup 2018
1982-1994
2006-present
1994-2002
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. After losing to Uruguay 4-2 in the final match in Montevideo, some Argentine fans were so upset that they attacked the Uruguayan consulate in Argentina.
1938. Argentina did not participate in the 1938 iteration of the World Cup, protesting the decision from FIFA to hold a second successive tournament in Europe.
1994. Diego Maradona led Argentina's national team to win the World Cup. Eight years later, he was removed from the World Cup after testing positive for stimulants banned by FIFA.
Notable Players
'86 champion
Top scorer
'14 finalist
argentina
Diego Maradona
Gabriel Batistuta
Lionel Messi
World Cup 2018
1982-1994
2006-present
1994-2002
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. After losing to Uruguay 4-2 in the final match in Montevideo, some Argentine fans were so upset that they attacked the Uruguayan consulate in Argentina.
1938. Argentina did not participate in the 1938 iteration of the World Cup, protesting the decision from FIFA to hold a second successive tournament in Europe.
1994. Diego Maradona led Argentina's national team to win the World Cup. Eight years later, he was removed from the World Cup after testing positive for stimulants banned by FIFA.
Spain
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Most games
Iker
Casillas
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
David
Villa
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10 champion
Andrés
Iniesta
'10
'14
1938. Spain's entry to the 1938 Cup was denied by FIFA officials, who voiced concerns that the Spanish Civil War would keep the team from participating in all of their matches.
2010. Spain won their first World Cup against the Netherlands during the 2010 tournament, which was the first and only one hosted in Africa. They played the final in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Year
1930
Spain
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1938. Spain's entry to the 1938 Cup was denied by FIFA officials, who voiced concerns that the Spanish Civil War would keep the team from participating in all of their matches.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1982. Spain was declared the 1982 host country a year after the death of dictator Francisco Franco. FIFA hoped that this move would show the world a revitalized Spain.
'74
'78
host
'82
'86
'90
'94
2010. Spain won their first World Cup against the Netherlands during the 2010 tournament, which was the first and only one hosted in Africa. They played the final in Johannesburg, South Africa.
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'10 champion
Iker Casillas
Andrés Iniesta
David Villa
2002-2014
2006-2014
2006-present
Notable Players
'10 champion
Most games
Top scorer
Spain
Iker Casillas
Andrés Iniesta
David Villa
World Cup 2018
2002-2014
2006-2014
2006-present
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Spain's entry to the 1938 Cup was denied by FIFA officials, who voiced concerns that the Spanish Civil War would keep the team from participating in all of their matches.
1982. Spain was declared the 1982 host country a year after the death of dictator Francisco Franco. FIFA hoped that this move would show the world a revitalized Spain.
2010. Spain won their first World Cup against the Netherlands during the 2010 tournament, which was the first and only one hosted in Africa. They played the final in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Notable Players
'10 champion
Most games
Top scorer
Spain
Iker Casillas
Andrés Iniesta
David Villa
World Cup 2018
2002-2014
2006-2014
2006-present
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Spain's entry to the 1938 Cup was denied by FIFA officials, who voiced concerns that the Spanish Civil War would keep the team from participating in all of their matches.
1982. Spain was declared the 1982 host country a year after the death of dictator Francisco Franco. FIFA hoped that this move would show the world a revitalized Spain.
2010. Spain won their first World Cup against the Netherlands during the 2010 tournament, which was the first and only one hosted in Africa. They played the final in Johannesburg, South Africa.
England
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'66 champion
Bobby
Charlton
'78
'82
'86
'90
Most games
Peter
Shilton
'94
'98
'02
'06
Top scorer
Gary
Lineker
'10
'14
1958. The 1958 World Cup was the first and only tournament where every United Kingdom nation qualified. England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland all participated.
1966. The year England hosted the World Cup was the first one with over 70 entries, partially due to previously colonized nations becoming independent and participating in the tournament.
Year
1930
England
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1930. The United Kingdom declined to take part in the first three World Cups, partly because U.K. officials believed their home championship was superior to the global tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
host
'66
'70
1958. The 1958 World Cup was the first and only tournament where every United Kingdom nation qualified. England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland all participated.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1966. The year England hosted the World Cup was the first one with over 70 entries, partially due to previously colonized nations becoming independent and participating in the tournament.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'66 champion
Most games
Bobby Charlton
Gary Lineker
Peter Shilton
1958-1970
1982-1990
1986-1990
Notable Players
Top scorer
'66 champion
Most games
England
Bobby Charlton
Gary Lineker
Peter Shilton
World Cup 2018
1958-1970
1982-1990
1986-1990
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. The United Kingdom declined to take part in the first three World Cups, partly because U.K. officials believed their home championship was superior to the global tournament.
1958. The 1958 World Cup was the first and only tournament where every United Kingdom nation qualified. England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland all participated.
1966. The year England hosted the World Cup was the first one with over 70 entries, partially due to previously colonized nations becoming independent and participating in the tournament.
Notable Players
Top scorer
'66 champion
Most games
England
Bobby Charlton
Peter Shilton
Gary Lineker
World Cup 2018
1958-1970
1986-1990
1982-1990
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. The United Kingdom declined to take part in the first three World Cups, partly because U.K. officials believed their home championship was superior to the global tournament.
1958. The 1958 World Cup was the first and only tournament where every United Kingdom nation qualified. England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Scotland all participated.
1966. The year England hosted the World Cup was the first one with over 70 entries, partially due to previously colonized nations becoming independent and participating in the tournament.
France
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Just
Fontaine
'78
'82
'86
'90
'86 third
place
Michel Platini
'94
'98
'02
'06
'98 champion
Zinedine
Zidane
'10
'14
1958. French player Just Fontaine scored 13 goals throughout the 1958 tournament, which is still an unbeaten record. He only played one World Cup in his career.
2006. In his final World Cup match, French player Zinedine Zidane was removed for head-butting Italian player Marco Materazzi. France lost the final in a penalty shoot-out.
Year
1930
France
World Cup 2018
'34
host
'38
1930. France lost to Argentina amid controversy: the referees ended the game six minutes early and later brought the players back to finish the game.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
1958. French player Just Fontaine scored 13 goals throughout the 1958 tournament, which is still an unbeaten record. He only played one World Cup in his career.
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
host
'98
2006. In his final World Cup match, French player Zinedine Zidane was removed for head-butting Italian player Marco Materazzi. France lost the final in a penalty shoot-out.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 third place
'98 champion
Just Fontaine
Zinedine Zidane
Michel Platini
1958
1978-1986
1998-2006
Notable Players
'98 champion
Top scorer
'86 third place
France
Just Fontaine
Zinedine Zidane
Michel Platini
World Cup 2018
1958
1978-1986
1998-2006
host
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. France lost to Argentina amid controversy: the referees ended the game six minutes early and later brought the players back to finish the game.
1958. French player Just Fontaine scored 13 goals throughout the 1958 tournament, which is still an unbeaten record. He only played one World Cup in his career.
2006. In his final World Cup match, French player Zinedine Zidane was removed for head-butting Italian player Marco Materazzi. France lost the final in a penalty shoot-out.
Notable Players
'98 champion
Top scorer
'86 third place
France
Just Fontaine
Michel Platini
Zinedine Zidane
World Cup 2018
1958
1998-2006
1978-1986
host
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. France lost to Argentina amid controversy: the referees ended the game six minutes early and later brought the players back to finish the game.
1958. French player Just Fontaine scored 13 goals throughout the 1958 tournament, which is still an unbeaten record. He only played one World Cup in his career.
2006. In his final World Cup match, French player Zinedine Zidane was removed for head-butting Italian player Marco Materazzi. France lost the final in a penalty shoot-out.
Netherlands
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'74 finalist
Johan Cruyff
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
Johnny Rep
'94
'98
'02
Tied most games
Wesley
Sneijder
'06
'10
'14
1974. The 1974 World Cup was the first time the Netherlands participated in the tournament since their occupation by Germany. They lost to Germany 2-1 in the final game.
1978. Johan Cruyff, considered the team's best player at the time, surprisingly did not participate. In a later interview, Cruyff stated someone had attempted to kidnap his family from their Barcelona home.
Year
1930
Netherlands
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1974. The 1974 World Cup was the first time the Netherlands participated in the tournament since their occupation by Germany. They lost to Germany 2-1 in the final game.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1978. Johan Cruyff, considered the team's best player at the time, surprisingly did not participate. In a later interview, Cruyff stated someone had attempted to kidnap his family from their Barcelona home.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
2010. The Dutch national team holds the record for playing in the most World Cup finals without a win. They played unsuccessful final matches in 1974, 1978, and 2010.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'74 finalist
Top scorer
Tied most games
Johan Cruyff
Wesley Sneijder
Johnny Rep
1974
1974-1978
2006-2014
Notable Players
'74 finalist
Top scorer
Tied most games
Netherlands
Johan Cruyff
Wesley Sneijder
Johnny Rep
World Cup 2018
1974
1974-1978
2006-2014
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1974. The 1974 World Cup was the first time the Netherlands participated in the tournament since their occupation by Germany. They lost to Germany 2-1 in the final game.
1978. Johan Cruyff, considered the team's best player at the time, surprisingly did not participate. In a later interview, Cruyff stated someone had attempted to kidnap his family from their Barcelona home.
2010. The Dutch national team holds the record for playing in the most World Cup finals without a win. They played unsuccessful final matches in 1974, 1978, and 2010.
Notable Players
'74 finalist
Top scorer
Tied most games
Netherlands
Johan Cruyff
Johnny Rep
Wesley Sneijder
World Cup 2018
1974
2006-2014
1974-1978
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1974. The 1974 World Cup was the first time the Netherlands participated in the tournament since their occupation by Germany. They lost to Germany 2-1 in the final game.
1978. Johan Cruyff, considered the team's best player at the time, surprisingly did not participate. In a later interview, Cruyff stated someone had attempted to kidnap his family from their Barcelona home.
2010. The Dutch national team holds the record for playing in the most World Cup finals without a win. They played unsuccessful final matches in 1974, 1978, and 2010.
Uruguay
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Óscar Míguez
'78
'82
'86
'86 &
'90 squad
Enzo
Francescoli
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10 fourth place
Diego Forlán
'10
'14
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Year
1930
Uruguay
host
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1934. Uruguay won the 1930 tournament but refused to defend their title in Italy, protesting of the lack of Europeans teams in the 1930 Cup. Uruguay remains the only winning team not to defend its title.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'10 fourth place
Top scorer
'86 & '90 squad
Óscar Míguez
Diego Forlán
Enzo Francescoli
1950-1954
1986-1990
2002, 2010-2014
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 & '90 squad
'10 fourth place
Uruguay
Óscar Míguez
Diego Forlán
Enzo Francescoli
World Cup 2018
1950-1954
1986-1990
2002, 2010-2014
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1934. Uruguay won the 1930 tournament but refused to defend their title in Italy, protesting of the lack of Europeans teams in the 1930 Cup. Uruguay remains the only winning team not to defend its title.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Notable Players
'10 fourth place
Top scorer
'86 & '90 squad
Uruguay
Óscar Míguez
Enzo Francescoli
Diego Forlán
World Cup 2018
1950-1954
2002, 2010-2014
1986-1990
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1934. Uruguay won the 1930 tournament but refused to defend their title in Italy, protesting of the lack of Europeans teams in the 1930 Cup. Uruguay remains the only winning team not to defend its title.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Uruguay
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Óscar Míguez
'78
'82
'86
'86 &
'90 squad
Enzo
Francescoli
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10 fourth place
Diego Forlán
'10
'14
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Uruguay
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Óscar Míguez
'78
'82
'86
'86 &
'90 squad
Enzo
Francescoli
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10 fourth place
Diego Forlán
'10
'14
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Uruguay
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Óscar Míguez
'78
'82
'86
'86 &
'90 squad
Enzo
Francescoli
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10 fourth place
Diego Forlán
'10
'14
1930. The first ever World Cup was held in Uruguay. Thirteen countries participated, but few came from Europe due to an economic depression. Uruguay also won the tournament.
1950. Uruguay defeated Brazil on their home soil in the match known as "Maracanazo." It remains the highest attended final match, with 174,000 fans in the stadium.
Sweden
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'58 squad
Nils Liedholm
'78
'82
'86
'90
Tied for
Top scorer
Kennet Andersson
'94
'98
'02
'06
Most games
Henrik
Larsson
'10
'14
1950. Claiming there was no room for professional players at the World Cup, the Swedish national team competed in 1950 with a team made up entirely of amateurs.
1958. In the final game in Solna, Sweden-the host that year-lost 2-5 to the Brazilian national team. To date, this is most goals scored in a World Cup final.
Year
1930
Sweden
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
No World Cups
1938. In the 1938 tournament, hosted by France, Sweden advanced straight to the quarter finals against Cuba after their first-round match with German-occupied Austria was cancelled.
'50
'54
host
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
1950. Claiming there was no room for professional players at the World Cup, the Swedish national team competed in 1950 with a team made up entirely of amateurs.
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1958. In the final game in Solna, Sweden-the host that year-lost 2-5 to the Brazilian national team. To date, this is most goals scored in a World Cup final.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'58 squad
Tied for top scorer
Most games
Nils Liedholm
Henrik Larsson
Kennet Andersson
1958
1994
1994, 2002-2006
Notable Players
Most games
'58 squad
Tied for top scorer
Sweden
Nils Liedholm
Henrik Larsson
Kennet Andersson
World Cup 2018
1958
1994
1994, 2002-2006
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. In the 1938 tournament, hosted by France, Sweden advanced straight to the quarter finals against Cuba after their first-round match with German-occupied Austria was cancelled.
1950. Claiming there was no room for professional players at the World Cup, the Swedish national team competed in 1950 with a team made up entirely of amateurs.
1958. In the final game in Solna, Sweden-the host that year-lost 2-5 to the Brazilian national team. To date, this is most goals scored in a World Cup final.
Notable Players
Most games
'58 squad
Tied for top scorer
Sweden
Nils Liedholm
Kennet Andersson
Henrik Larsson
World Cup 2018
1958
1994, 2002-2006
1994
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. In the 1938 tournament, hosted by France, Sweden advanced straight to the quarter finals against Cuba after their first-round match with German-occupied Austria was cancelled.
1950. Claiming there was no room for professional players at the World Cup, the Swedish national team competed in 1950 with a team made up entirely of amateurs.
1958. In the final game in Solna, Sweden-the host that year-lost 2-5 to the Brazilian national team. To date, this is most goals scored in a World Cup final.
Russia
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Most games
Lev Yashin
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
Oleg
Salenko
'94
'98
'02
'06
'58 squad
Nikita
Simonyan
'10
'14
1958. The government of the Soviet Union finally granted its national team permission to enter the World Cup. They lost to Sweden, that year's host, in the quarterfinals of the tournament.
1994. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia played their first World Cup competition as an independent country. They couldn't make it past the group stage.
Year
1930
Russia
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1958. The government of the Soviet Union finally granted its national team permission to enter the World Cup. They lost to Sweden, that year's host, in the quarterfinals of the tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1974. The Soviet Union refused to travel to Chile to play a qualifying match for political reasons, so, in accordance with regulations, Chile was awarded the victory.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1994. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia played their first World Cup competition as an independent country. They couldn't make it past the group stage.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'58 squad
Lev Yashin
Nikita Simonyan
Oleg Salenko
1958-1970
1994
1958
Notable Players
'58 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Russia
Lev Yashin
Nikita Simonyan
Oleg Salenko
World Cup 2018
1958-1970
1994
1958
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1958. The government of the Soviet Union finally granted its national team permission to enter the World Cup. They lost to Sweden, that year's host, in the quarterfinals of the tournament.
1974. The Soviet Union refused to travel to Chile to play a qualifying match for political reasons, so, in accordance with regulations, Chile was awarded the victory.
1994. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia played their first World Cup competition as an independent country. They couldn't make it past the group stage.
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'58 squad
Russia
Lev Yashin
Nikita Simonyan
Oleg Salenko
World Cup 2018
1958-1970
1994
1958
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1958. The government of the Soviet Union finally granted its national team permission to enter the World Cup. They lost to Sweden, that year's host, in the quarterfinals of the tournament.
1974. The Soviet Union refused to travel to Chile to play a qualifying match for political reasons, so, in accordance with regulations, Chile was awarded the victory.
1994. After the disintegration of the Soviet Union, Russia played their first World Cup competition as an independent country. They couldn't make it past the group stage.
Serbia
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'30 squad
"Ivica" Bek
'78
'82
'86
Top scorer
Dražan
Jerković
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
Tied for
Most games
Dejan
Stanković
'10
'14
2010. Serbia made its debut in the tournament as an independent country, having played as Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1998.
Dejan Stankovic was recognized as the first player to have represented three different countries in three World Cups: Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Serbia.
Year
1930
Serbia
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1994. Due to sanctions from the United Nations, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia-a union created by Serbia and Montenegro from 1992-2003-was barred from qualifying for this World Cup.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
2010. Serbia made its debut in the tournament as an independent country, having played as Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1998.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
Dejan Stankovic was recognized as the first player to have represented three different countries in three World Cups: Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Serbia.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'30 squad
Top scorer
Tied for most games
"Ivica" Bek
Dejan Stanković
Dražan Jerković
1930
1998-2010
1958-1962
Notable Players
'30 squad
Top scorer
Tied for most games
Serbia
"Ivica" Bek
Dejan Stanković
Dražan Jerković
World Cup 2018
1930
1998-2010
1958-1962
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1994. Due to sanctions from the United Nations, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia-a union created by Serbia and Montenegro from 1992-2003-was barred from qualifying for this World Cup.
2010. Serbia made its debut in the tournament as an independent country, having played as Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1998.
Dejan Stankovic was recognized as the first player to have represented three different countries in three World Cups: Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Serbia.
Notable Players
'30 squad
Top scorer
Tied for most games
Serbia
Dražan Jerković
"Ivica" Bek
Dejan Stanković
World Cup 2018
1930
1998-2010
1958-1962
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1994. Due to sanctions from the United Nations, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia-a union created by Serbia and Montenegro from 1992-2003-was barred from qualifying for this World Cup.
2010. Serbia made its debut in the tournament as an independent country, having played as Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1998.
Dejan Stankovic was recognized as the first player to have represented three different countries in three World Cups: Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Serbia and Montenegro, and Serbia.
Mexico
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Luis
Hernández
'78
'82
'86
'90
Played in 3 WC
Cuauhtémoc
Blanco
'94
'98
'02
'06
Most games
Rafael
Márquez
'10
'14
1970. The year that Mexico hosted the World Cup was also the first to ever be broadcast on television in color. They passed the group stage for the first time in their history of the tournament.
1986. A major earthquake hit Mexico City eight months before the tournament, causing thousands of casualties before Mexico was set to host the Cup.
Year
1930
Mexico
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1970. The year that Mexico hosted the World Cup was also the first to ever be broadcast on television in color. They passed the group stage for the first time in their history of the tournament.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
host
'70
1986. A major earthquake hit Mexico City eight months before the tournament, causing thousands of casualties before Mexico was set to host the Cup.
'74
'78
'82
host
'86
'90
'94
'98
1990. Mexico was suspended from the 1990 World Cup qualifying rounds after falsifying the ages of players during a youth championship tournament.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
Played in 3 WC
Most games
Luis Hernández
Rafael Márquez
Cuauhtémoc Blanco
1998-2002
1998-2002, 2010
2002-present
Notable Players
Top scorer
Played in 3 WC
Most games
Mexico
Luis Hernández
Rafael Márquez
Cuauhtémoc Blanco
World Cup 2018
1998-2002
1998-2002, 2010
2002-present
host
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1970. The year that Mexico hosted the World Cup was also the first to ever be broadcast on television in color. They passed the group stage for the first time in their history of the tournament.
1986. A major earthquake hit Mexico City eight months before the tournament, causing thousands of casualties before Mexico was set to host the Cup.
1990. Mexico was suspended from the 1990 World Cup qualifying rounds after falsifying the ages of players during a youth championship tournament.
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
Played in 3 WC
Mexico
Luis Hernández
Cuauhtémoc Blanco
Rafael Márquez
World Cup 2018
1998-2002
2002-present
1998-2002, 2010
host
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1970. The year that Mexico hosted the World Cup was also the first to ever be broadcast on television in color. They passed the group stage for the first time in their history of the tournament.
1986. A major earthquake hit Mexico City eight months before the tournament, causing thousands of casualties before Mexico was set to host the Cup.
1990. Mexico was suspended from the 1990 World Cup qualifying rounds after falsifying the ages of players during a youth championship tournament.
Belgium
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Most games
Enzo Scifo
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
Marc
Wilmots
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14 squad
Eden Hazard
'14
1930. Belgium played the United States in one of the first World Cup matches. The other game, which was played simultaneously, was between France and Mexico.
1970. After years of defeat, the Belgian national team had their first victory at the 1970 World Cup. Dressed in all white, the team earned the nickname 'the White Devils'.
Year
1930
Belgium
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1930. Belgium played the United States in one of the first World Cup matches. The other game, which was played simultaneously, was between France and Mexico.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1970. After years of defeat, the Belgian national team had their first victory at the 1970 World Cup. Dressed in all white, the team earned the nickname 'the White Devils'.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1974. Belgium is the only nation ever to miss a World Cup final round despite not allowing the opposition to score a single goal during the qualifiers. They came in second to the Netherlands.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'14 squad
Enzo Scifo
Eden Hazard
Marc Wilmots
1986-1998
1990-2002
2014-present
Notable Players
'14 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Belgium
Enzo Scifo
Eden Hazard
Marc Wilmots
World Cup 2018
1986-1998
1990-2002
2014-present
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. Belgium played the United States in one of the first World Cup matches. The other game, which was played simultaneously, was between France and Mexico.
1970. After years of defeat, the Belgian national team had their first victory at the 1970 World Cup. Dressed in all white, the team earned the nickname 'the White Devils'.
1974. Belgium is the only nation ever to miss a World Cup final round despite not allowing the opposition to score a single goal during the qualifiers. They came in second to the Netherlands.
Notable Players
'14 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Belgium
Enzo Scifo
Marc Wilmots
Eden Hazard
World Cup 2018
1986-1998
2014-present
1990-2002
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. Belgium played the United States in one of the first World Cup matches. The other game, which was played simultaneously, was between France and Mexico.
1970. After years of defeat, the Belgian national team had their first victory at the 1970 World Cup. Dressed in all white, the team earned the nickname 'the White Devils'.
1974. Belgium is the only nation ever to miss a World Cup final round despite not allowing the opposition to score a single goal during the qualifiers. They came in second to the Netherlands.
Poland
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Grzegorz Lato
'78
'82
'86
'90
Most games
Władysław Żmuda
'94
'98
'02
'06
'82 squad
Zbigniew Boniek
'10
'14
1938. Ernst Wilimowski was the first player to score four goals in one match at a FIFA World Cup. Poland still lost 5-6 to Brazil, and he remains the only player to score that many times and still lose the match.
1982. Due to civil resistance against communist Poland in 1980, several prominent players were suspended and the team manager resigned. Many players were reinstated before the 1982 tournament.
Year
1930
Poland
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1938. Ernst Wilimowski was the first player to score four goals in one match at a FIFA World Cup. Poland still lost 5-6 to Brazil, and he remains the only player to score that many times and still lose the match.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1982. Due to civil resistance against communist Poland in 1980, several prominent players were suspended and the team manager resigned. Many players were reinstated before the 1982 tournament.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
Nazis in German-occupied Poland introduced a total ban on regional sports clubs, so Polish activists and players risked their lives by organizing secret football competitions throughout the country.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
Most games
'82 squad
Władysław Żmuda
Grzegorz Lato
Zbigniew Boniek
1974-1982
1974-1986
1978-1986
Notable Players
'82 squad
Top scorer
Most games
Poland
Władysław Żmuda
Grzegorz Lato
Zbigniew Boniek
World Cup 2018
1974-1982
1974-1986
1978-1986
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Ernst Wilimowski was the first player to score four goals in one match at a FIFA World Cup. Poland still lost 5-6 to Brazil, and he remains the only player to score that many times and still lose the match.
1982. Due to civil resistance against communist Poland in 1980, several prominent players were suspended and the team manager resigned. Many players were reinstated before the 1982 tournament.
Nazis in German-occupied Poland introduced a total ban on regional sports clubs, so Polish activists and players risked their lives by organizing secret football competitions throughout the country.
Notable Players
'82 squad
Top scorer
Most games
Poland
Władysław Żmuda
Grzegorz Lato
Zbigniew Boniek
World Cup 2018
1974-1982
1978-1986
1974-1986
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Ernst Wilimowski was the first player to score four goals in one match at a FIFA World Cup. Poland still lost 5-6 to Brazil, and he remains the only player to score that many times and still lose the match.
1982. Due to civil resistance against communist Poland in 1980, several prominent players were suspended and the team manager resigned. Many players were reinstated before the 1982 tournament.
Nazis in German-occupied Poland introduced a total ban on regional sports clubs, so Polish activists and players risked their lives by organizing secret football competitions throughout the country.
Hungary
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
Top scorer
Sándor Kocsis
'82
'86
'90
'54 squad
Ferenc Puskás
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
Most games
Ferenc Sipos
'14
1954. Hungarian star player Ferenc Puskás accused the Germans of using dope during the 1954 World Cup. However, FIFA eventually forced him to rescind his accusations and issue an apology.
1958. Hungary's domination of European soccer was cut short due to the Hungarian revolution of 1956. During this time, many players were forced to leave the country.
Year
1930
Hungary
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1954. Hungarian star player Ferenc Puskás accused the Germans of using dope during the 1954 World Cup. However, FIFA eventually forced him to rescind his accusations and issue an apology.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1954. After years of defeat, Hungary's 'Golden Team' played in the 1954 World Cup. The team was led by Ferenc Puskás, who is the leading goalscorer of the 20th century.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1958. Hungary's domination of European soccer was cut short due to the Hungarian revolution of 1956. During this time, many players were forced to leave the country.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'54 squad
Most games
Sándor Kocsis
Ferenc Sipos
Ferenc Puskás
1954
1954-1962
1958-1966
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'54 squad
Hungary
Sándor Kocsis
Ferenc Sipos
Ferenc Puskás
World Cup 2018
1954
1954-1962
1958-1966
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1954. Hungarian star player Ferenc Puskás accused the Germans of using dope during the 1954 World Cup. However, FIFA eventually forced him to rescind his accusations and issue an apology.
1954. After years of defeat, Hungary's 'Golden Team' played in the 1954 World Cup. The team was led by Ferenc Puskás, who is the leading goalscorer of the 20th century.
1958. Hungary's domination of European soccer was cut short due to the Hungarian revolution of 1956. During this time, many players were forced to leave the country.
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'54 squad
Hungary
Sándor Kocsis
Ferenc Puskás
Ferenc Sipos
World Cup 2018
1954
1958-1966
1954-1962
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1954. Hungarian star player Ferenc Puskás accused the Germans of using dope during the 1954 World Cup. However, FIFA eventually forced him to rescind his accusations and issue an apology.
1954. After years of defeat, Hungary's 'Golden Team' played in the 1954 World Cup. The team was led by Ferenc Puskás, who is the leading goalscorer of the 20th century.
1958. Hungary's domination of European soccer was cut short due to the Hungarian revolution of 1956. During this time, many players were forced to leave the country.
Portugal
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
Top scorer
Eusébio
'82
'86
'90
'94
'06 squad
Luís Figo
'98
'02
'06
Most games
Cristiano
Ronaldo
'10
'14
1966. Mozambique-born player Eusébio qualified for the Portuguese national team since Mozambique was a Portuguese colony at the time. He became one of Portugal's best players.
2006. After an incredible debut performance in 1966, Portugal made it to only two World Cups in the next 40 years, finally finishing fourth in 2006. They lost to France in the semi-finals.
Year
1930
Portugal
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1966. Mozambique-born player Eusébio qualified for the Portuguese national team since Mozambique was a Portuguese colony at the time. He became one of Portugal's best players.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
2006. During the 2006 match between Portugal and the Netherlands in Germany, there were a total of 16 yellow cards given. This is the most ever in World Cup history.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
2006. After an incredible debut performance in 1966, Portugal made it to only two World Cups in the next 40 years, finally finishing fourth in 2006. They lost to France in the semi-finals.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'06 squad
Eusébio
Cristiano Ronaldo
Luís Figo
1966
2002-2006
2006-present
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'06 squad
Portugal
Eusébio
Cristiano Ronaldo
Luís Figo
World Cup 2018
1966
2002-2006
2006-present
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1966. Mozambique-born player Eusébio qualified for the Portuguese national team since Mozambique was a Portuguese colony at the time. He became one of Portugal's best players.
2006. During the 2006 match between Portugal and the Netherlands in Germany, there were a total of 16 yellow cards given. This is the most ever in World Cup history.
2006. After an incredible debut performance in 1966, Portugal made it to only two World Cups in the next 40 years, finally finishing fourth in 2006. They lost to France in the semi-finals.
Notable Players
Most games
Top scorer
'06 squad
Portugal
Eusébio
Luís Figo
Cristiano Ronaldo
World Cup 2018
1966
2006-present
2002-2006
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1966. Mozambique-born player Eusébio qualified for the Portuguese national team since Mozambique was a Portuguese colony at the time. He became one of Portugal's best players.
2006. During the 2006 match between Portugal and the Netherlands in Germany, there were a total of 16 yellow cards given. This is the most ever in World Cup history.
2006. After an incredible debut performance in 1966, Portugal made it to only two World Cups in the next 40 years, finally finishing fourth in 2006. They lost to France in the semi-finals.
Czech Republic
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Top scorer
Oldřich
Nejedlý
'78
'82
'86
'90
'62 squad
Josef
Masopust
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'06 squad
Pavel Nedvěd
'14
1998. For the 1998 World Cup, the Czech Republic and Slovakia entered the 1998 World Cup as separate teams. However, neither team qualified for the tournament.
2006. As Czechoslovakia, the team placed second in the World Cup twice. After the split, the Czech Republic has qualified for the World Cup just once.
Year
1930
Czech Republic
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1994. While Czechoslovakia split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993, the two countries played as a joint team for the remaining qualifying matches.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1998. For the 1998 World Cup, the Czech Republic and Slovakia entered the 1998 World Cup as separate teams. However, neither team qualified for the tournament.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
2006. As Czechoslovakia, the team placed second in the World Cup twice. After the split, the Czech Republic has qualified for the World Cup just once.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'62 squad
'06 squad
Oldřich Nejedlý
Pavel Nedvěd
Josef Masopust
1934-1938
1958-1962
2006
Notable Players
'06 squad
Top scorer
'62 squad
Czech Republic
Oldřich Nejedlý
Pavel Nedvěd
Josef Masopust
World Cup 2018
1934-1938
1958-1962
2006
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1994. While Czechoslovakia split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993, the two countries played as a joint team for the remaining qualifying matches.
1998. For the 1998 World Cup, the Czech Republic and Slovakia entered the 1998 World Cup as separate teams. However, neither team qualified for the tournament.
2006. As Czechoslovakia, the team placed second in the World Cup twice. After the split, the Czech Republic has qualified for the World Cup just once.
Notable Players
'06 squad
Top scorer
'62 squad
Czech Republic
Oldřich Nejedlý
Josef Masopust
Pavel Nedvěd
World Cup 2018
1934-1938
2006
1958-1962
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1994. While Czechoslovakia split into the Czech Republic and Slovakia in 1993, the two countries played as a joint team for the remaining qualifying matches.
1998. For the 1998 World Cup, the Czech Republic and Slovakia entered the 1998 World Cup as separate teams. However, neither team qualified for the tournament.
2006. As Czechoslovakia, the team placed second in the World Cup twice. After the split, the Czech Republic has qualified for the World Cup just once.
Austria
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'34 squad
Matthias Sindelar
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
Top scorer
Erich Probst
'98
'02
'06
'10
'54 squad
Ernst Ocwirk
'14
1938. Austria was annexed by Germany during World War II. This caused their national team to lose its place in the 1938 finals and forfeit their game against Sweden.
1978. In the World Cup hosted in Argentina, Austria defeated West Germany for the first time in 47 years, with a final score of 3-2. Austrian fans regard this game as the 'Miracle of Cordoba.'
Year
1930
Austria
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1938. Austria was annexed by Germany during World War II. This caused their national team to lose its place in the 1938 finals and forfeit their game against Sweden.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1938. Matthias Sindelar, Austria's top player at the time, refused to play for Germany in the 1938 Cup. Several months later, he was found dead in his bed in Vienna.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1978. In the World Cup hosted in Argentina, Austria defeated West Germany for the first time in 47 years, with a final score of 3-2. Austrian fans regard this game as the 'Miracle of Cordoba.'
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'34 squad
Top scorer
'54 squad
Matthias Sindelar
Ernst Ocwirk
Erich Probst
1934
1954
1954
Notable Players
'54 squad
'34 squad
Top scorer
Austria
Matthias Sindelar
Ernst Ocwirk
Erich Probst
World Cup 2018
1934
1954
1954
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Austria was annexed by Germany during World War II. This caused their national team to lose its place in the 1938 finals and forfeit their game against Sweden.
1938. Matthias Sindelar, Austria's top player at the time, refused to play for Germany in the 1938 Cup. Several months later, he was found dead in his bed in Vienna.
1978. In the World Cup hosted in Argentina, Austria defeated West Germany for the first time in 47 years, with a final score of 3-2. Austrian fans regard this game as the 'Miracle of Cordoba.'
Notable Players
'54 squad
'34 squad
Top scorer
Austria
Matthias Sindelar
Erich Probst
Ernst Ocwirk
World Cup 2018
1934
1954
1954
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1938. Austria was annexed by Germany during World War II. This caused their national team to lose its place in the 1938 finals and forfeit their game against Sweden.
1938. Matthias Sindelar, Austria's top player at the time, refused to play for Germany in the 1938 Cup. Several months later, he was found dead in his bed in Vienna.
1978. In the World Cup hosted in Argentina, Austria defeated West Germany for the first time in 47 years, with a final score of 3-2. Austrian fans regard this game as the 'Miracle of Cordoba.'
Chile
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'62 squad
Leonel
Sánchez
'78
'82
'86
'90
Most games
Elías
Figueroa
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
Top scorer
Marcelo Salas
'14
1974. Following the coup d'etat that brought Augusto Pinochet to power in 1973, the military executed prisoners in Santiago stadium. Russia then refused to play Chile in the stadium for a qualifying match.
1994. Chile was banned from the 1994 tournament in the United States after its goalkeeper feigned injury by a fan-lit firework to delay a qualifying match in 1989.
Year
1930
Chile
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1962. "La batalla de Santiago" between Chile and Italy was described as one of the most vicious games in World Cup history. It escalated to violence between the two teams and local police needed to intervene.
'50
'54
'58
host
'62
'66
'70
1974. Following the coup d'etat that brought Augusto Pinochet to power in 1973, the military executed prisoners in Santiago stadium. Russia then refused to play Chile in the stadium for a qualifying match.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1994. Chile was banned from the 1994 tournament in the United States after its goalkeeper feigned injury by a fan-lit firework to delay a qualifying match in 1989.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'62 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Leonel Sánchez
Marcelo Salas
Elías Figueroa
1962-1966
1966-1982
1998
Notable Players
Top scorer
'62 squad
Most games
Chile
Leonel Sánchez
Marcelo Salas
Elías Figueroa
World Cup 2018
1962-1966
1966-1982
1998
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1962. "La batalla de Santiago" between Chile and Italy was described as one of the most vicious games in World Cup history. It escalated to violence between the two teams and local police needed to intervene.
1974. Following the coup d'etat that brought Augusto Pinochet to power in 1973, the military executed prisoners in Santiago stadium. Russia then refused to play Chile in the stadium for a qualifying match.
1994. Chile was banned from the 1994 tournament in the United States after its goalkeeper feigned injury by a fan-lit firework to delay a qualifying match in 1989.
Notable Players
Top scorer
'62 squad
Most games
Chile
Elías Figueroa
Leonel Sánchez
Marcelo Salas
World Cup 2018
1962-1966
1966-1982
1998
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1962. "La batalla de Santiago" between Chile and Italy was described as one of the most vicious games in World Cup history. It escalated to violence between the two teams and local police needed to intervene.
1974. Following the coup d'etat that brought Augusto Pinochet to power in 1973, the military executed prisoners in Santiago stadium. Russia then refused to play Chile in the stadium for a qualifying match.
1994. Chile was banned from the 1994 tournament in the United States after its goalkeeper feigned injury by a fan-lit firework to delay a qualifying match in 1989.
Switzerland
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
Most games
"Kiki" Antenen
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
"Sepp Huegi"
'94
'98
'02
'06
'14 squad
Xherdan
Shaqiri
'10
'14
1954. The Switzerland-hosted World Cup in 1954 was the first to be televised. This tournament also set the record for highest average goals scored per game. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals.
1994. The last game between Switzerland and Colombia in the 1994 Cup was also the last game for Colombian defender Andres Escobar. He was murdered a week after his team was eliminated in Colombia.
Year
1930
Switzerland
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1954. The Switzerland-hosted World Cup in 1954 was the first to be televised. This tournament also set the record for highest average goals scored per game. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals.
'50
host
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1994. The last game between Switzerland and Colombia in the 1994 Cup was also the last game for Colombian defender Andres Escobar. He was murdered a week after his team was eliminated in Colombia.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
2006. Switzerland was eliminated from the 2006 tournament despite not letting a single team score a goal against them. The team holds the record for fewest goals conceded in tournament history.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'14 squad
Most games
Top scorer
"Kiki" Antenen
Xherdan Shaqiri
"Sepp Huegi"
1950-1962
1954
2010-present
Notable Players
'14 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Switzerland
"Kiki" Antenen
"Sepp Huegi"
Xherdan Shaqiri
World Cup 2018
1950-1962
2010-present
1954
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1954. The Switzerland-hosted World Cup in 1954 was the first to be televised. This tournament also set the record for highest average goals scored per game. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals.
1994. The last game between Switzerland and Colombia in the 1994 Cup was also the last game for Colombian defender Andres Escobar. He was murdered a week after his team was eliminated in Colombia.
2006. Switzerland was eliminated from the 2006 tournament despite not letting a single team score a goal against them. The team holds the record for fewest goals conceded in tournament history.
Notable Players
'14 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Switzerland
"Kiki" Antenen
"Sepp Huegi"
Xherdan Shaqiri
World Cup 2018
1950-1962
2010-present
1954
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1954. The Switzerland-hosted World Cup in 1954 was the first to be televised. This tournament also set the record for highest average goals scored per game. Switzerland reached the quarterfinals.
1994. The last game between Switzerland and Colombia in the 1994 Cup was also the last game for Colombian defender Andres Escobar. He was murdered a week after his team was eliminated in Colombia.
2006. Switzerland was eliminated from the 2006 tournament despite not letting a single team score a goal against them. The team holds the record for fewest goals conceded in tournament history.
Paraguay
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'98 & '02 squad
José Luis
Chilavert
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'06 squad
Salvador Cabañas
'94
'98
'02
'06
Tied for
Most games
Roque
Santa Cruz
'10
'14
2010. Before the 2010 World Cup, Salvador Cabañas was shot in the head after an argument with a narcotics trafficker in a nightclub in Mexico City. He survived the incident, but it ended his professional career.
2010. In Paraguay's best World Cup performance, the nation reached the quarterfinals for first and only time. The team was eliminated by Spain, who went on to win the Cup.
Year
1930
Paraguay
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
2010. Before the 2010 World Cup, Salvador Cabañas was shot in the head after an argument with a narcotics trafficker in a nightclub in Mexico City. He survived the incident, but it ended his professional career.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
2010. In Paraguay's best World Cup performance, the nation reached the quarterfinals for first and only time. The team was eliminated by Spain, who went on to win the Cup.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
José Luis Chilavert was famous for being a goalkeeper that also scored goals. He scored seven goals in qualifying games throughout his career. However, he never scored a goal during the World Cup.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'98 & '02 squad
'06 squad
Tied for most games
José Luis Chilavert
Roque Santa Cruz
Salvador Cabañas
1998-2002
2006
2002-2010
Notable Players
'98 & '02 squad
'06 squad
Tied for most games
Paraguay
José Luis Chilavert
Roque Santa Cruz
Salvador Cabañas
World Cup 2018
1998-2002
2006
2002-2010
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
2010. Before the 2010 World Cup, Salvador Cabañas was shot in the head after an argument with a narcotics trafficker in a nightclub in Mexico City. He survived the incident, but it ended his professional career.
2010. In Paraguay's best World Cup performance, the nation reached the quarterfinals for first and only time. The team was eliminated by Spain, who went on to win the Cup.
José Luis Chilavert was famous for being a goalkeeper that also scored goals. He scored seven goals in qualifying games throughout his career. However, he never scored a goal during the World. Cup.
Notable Players
'98 & '02 squad
'06 squad
Tied for most games
Paraguay
José Luis Chilavert
Salvador Cabañas
Roque Santa Cruz
World Cup 2018
1998-2002
2002-2010
2006
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
2010. Before the 2010 World Cup, Salvador Cabañas was shot in the head after an argument with a narcotics trafficker in a nightclub in Mexico City. He survived the incident, but it ended his professional career.
2010. In Paraguay's best World Cup performance, the nation reached the quarterfinals for first and only time. The team was eliminated by Spain, who went on to win the Cup.
José Luis Chilavert was famous for being a goalkeeper that also scored goals. He scored seven goals in qualifying games throughout his career. However, he never scored a goal during the World Cup.
United States
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'02 squad
Cobi Jones
'78
'82
'86
'90
Top scorer
Landon Donovan
'94
'98
'02
'06
Played in 4 WC
DaMarcus Beasley
'10
'14
1950. With a team formed mainly by amateur players and given 500 to 1 odds to win, the United States beat England 1-0 during the group stage. However, they did not make it past that stage.
1994. The U.S.-hosted World Cup in 1994 had a cumulative attendance of 3,587,538, breaking the previous record by more than one million. Average game attendance was 68,991 per game.
Year
1930
United States
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1950. With a team formed mainly by amateur players and given 500 to 1 odds to win, the United States beat England 1-0 during the group stage. However, they did not make it past that stage.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1994. The U.S.-hosted World Cup in 1994 had a cumulative attendance of 3,587,538, breaking the previous record by more than one million. Average game attendance was 68,991 per game.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
host
'94
'98
1998. The United States' match against Iran in the 1998 World Cup had significance beyond the game for the two nations, both of which were often demonized by the other's media at the time.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'02 squad
Top scorer
Played in 4 WC
Cobi Jones
DaMarcus Beasley
Landon Donovan
1994-2002
2002-2010
2002-2014
Notable Players
Played in 4 WC
'02 squad
Top scorer
United States
Cobi Jones
DaMarcus Beasley
Landon Donovan
World Cup 2018
1994-2002
2002-2010
2002-2014
host
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. With a team formed mainly by amateur players and given 500 to 1 odds to win, the United States beat England 1-0 during the group stage. However, they did not make it past that stage.
1994. The U.S.-hosted World Cup in 1994 had a cumulative attendance of 3,587,538, breaking the previous record by more than one million. Average game attendance was 68,991 per game.
1998. The United States' match against Iran in the 1998 World Cup had significance beyond the game for the two nations, both of which were often demonized by the other's media at the time.
Notable Players
Played in 4 WC
'02 squad
Top scorer
United States
Cobi Jones
Landon Donovan
DaMarcus Beasley
World Cup 2018
1994-2002
2002-2014
2002-2010
host
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1950. With a team formed mainly by amateur players and given 500 to 1 odds to win, the United States beat England 1-0 during the group stage. However, they did not make it past that stage.
1994. The U.S.-hosted World Cup in 1994 had a cumulative attendance of 3,587,538, breaking the previous record by more than one million. Average game attendance was 68,991 per game.
1998. The United States' match against Iran in the 1998 World Cup had significance beyond the game for the two nations, both of which were often demonized by the other's media at the time.
Romania
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'94 squad
Gheorghe
Hagi
'78
'82
'86
'90
Most games
Gheorghe
Popescu
'94
'98
'02
'06
Top scorer
Florin Răducioiu
'10
'14
1930. King Carol of Romania personally chose the players for its national team. His selected players were guaranteed job retention upon their return. They didn't make it past the group stage.
1930. Romania's 1930 match against Peru drew the smallest crowd in World Cup history. Attendance was officially recorded at around 2,500 fans, but some report there were fewer than 300 people at the game.
Year
1930
Romania
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1930. King Carol of Romania personally chose the players for its national team. His selected players were guaranteed job retention upon their return. They didn't make it past the group stage.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1930. Romania's 1930 match against Peru drew the smallest crowd in World Cup history. Attendance was officially recorded at around 2,500 fans, but some report there were fewer than 300 people at the game.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1998. The Romanian team dyed their hair blonde after defeating England in hopes it would bring them good luck. It didn't, and they lost their next match against Croatia.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
'94 squad
Most games
Top scorer
Gheorghe Hagi
Florin Răducioiu
Gheorghe Popescu
1990-1998
1990-1998
1990-1994
Notable Players
Top scorer
'94 squad
Most games
Romania
Gheorghe Hagi
Florin Răducioiu
Gheorghe Popescu
World Cup 2018
1990-1998
1990-1998
1990-1994
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. King Carol of Romania personally chose the players for its national team. His selected players were guaranteed job retention upon their return. They didn't make it past the group stage.
1930. Romania's 1930 match against Peru drew the smallest crowd in World Cup history. Attendance was officially recorded at around 2,500 fans, but some report there were fewer than 300 people at the game.
1998. The Romanian team dyed their hair blonde after defeating England in hopes it would bring them good luck. It didn't, and they lost their next match against Croatia.
Notable Players
Top scorer
'94 squad
Most games
Romania
Gheorghe Hagi
Gheorghe Popescu
Florin Răducioiu
World Cup 2018
1990-1998
1990-1994
1990-1998
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930. King Carol of Romania personally chose the players for its national team. His selected players were guaranteed job retention upon their return. They didn't make it past the group stage.
1930. Romania's 1930 match against Peru drew the smallest crowd in World Cup history. Attendance was officially recorded at around 2,500 fans, but some report there were fewer than 300 people at the game.
1998. The Romanian team dyed their hair blonde after defeating England in hopes it would bring them good luck. It didn't, and they lost their next match against Croatia.
Denmark
World Cup 2018
1930
'34
'38
No World Cups
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'86, '98 squad
Michael
Laudrup
'78
'82
'86
'90
'98 squad
Peter
Schmeichel
'94
'98
'02
'06
Top scorer
Jon Dahl
Tomasson
'10
'14
1986. Instead of hooligans, Danish fans are known as roligans. In Danish, rolig means calm and mild-mannered. The fans weren't rowdy or destructive. They were renowned for their peaceful behavior.
1930 to 1954. Denmark did not enter the competition between 1930 and 1954 due to their strict rule of only allowing amateurs on the national team. This rule was abolished in 1971.
Year
1930
Denmark
World Cup 2018
'34
'38
1986. Instead of hooligans, Danish fans are known as roligans. In Danish, rolig means calm and mild-mannered. The fans weren't rowdy or destructive. They were renowned for their peaceful behavior.
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
1998. Danish brothers Michael and Brian Laudrup-who many consider history's most gifted set of soccer-playing brothers-led the team during the France-hosted World Cup.
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
1930 to 1954. Denmark did not enter the competition between 1930 and 1954 due to their strict rule of only allowing amateurs on the national team. This rule was abolished in 1971.
'02
'06
'10
'14
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 & '98 squad
'98 squad
Michael Laudrup
Jon Dahl Tomasson
Peter Schmeichel
1986,1998
1998
2002,2010
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 & '98 squad
'98 squad
Denmark
Michael Laudrup
Jon Dahl Tomasson
Peter Schmeichel
World Cup 2018
1986,1998
1998
2002,2010
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Year
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930 to 1954. Denmark did not enter the competition between 1930 and 1954 due to their strict rule of only allowing amateurs on the national team. This rule was abolished in 1971.
1986. Instead of hooligans, Danish fans are known as roligans. In Danish, rolig means calm and mild-mannered. The fans weren't rowdy or destructive. They were renowned for their peaceful behavior.
1998. Danish brothers Michael and Brian Laudrup-who many consider history's most gifted set of soccer-playing brothers-led the team during the France-hosted World Cup.
Notable Players
Top scorer
'86 & '98 squad
'98 squad
Denmark
Michael Laudrup
Peter Schmeichel
Jon Dahl Tomasson
World Cup 2018
1986,1998
2002,2010
1998
Year
1930
'34
'38
'50
'54
'58
'62
'66
'70
'74
'78
'82
'86
'90
'94
'98
'02
'06
'10
'14
Qualification stage
Group stage
Knockout stage
Penalty shoot-out
Champion
1930 to 1954. Denmark did not enter the competition between 1930 and 1954 due to their strict rule of only allowing amateurs on the national team. This rule was abolished in 1971.
1986. Instead of hooligans, Danish fans are known as roligans. In Danish, rolig means calm and mild-mannered. The fans weren't rowdy or destructive. They were renowned for their peaceful behavior.
1998. Danish brothers Michael and Brian Laudrup-who many consider history's most gifted set of soccer-playing brothers-led the team during the France-hosted World Cup.