The FIFA World Cup 2018, hosted by Russia, was a global spectacle that brought together 32 of the world’s best national teams, each having secured their golden ticket through rigorous qualification matches. The tournament, held from June 14 to July 15, 2018, captivated millions of fans worldwide as teams competed for the most coveted trophy in international football. Here, we explore the teams that earned their place in this prestigious event.
**Europe (UEFA)**
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) had the most significant number of berths, with 14 teams qualifying for the tournament. Traditional powerhouses like Germany, Spain, and France made their expected appearances. Germany, the defending champions, were keen to retain their title, and their qualification campaign was nothing short of spectacular, winning all their matches. Spain also showed impressive form, remaining unbeaten throughout their group stage.
Yet, it was the smaller nations, like Iceland, making their World Cup debut, that caught the world’s attention. Iceland’s qualification was a fairy-tale story, becoming the smallest nation by population ever to qualify for a World Cup. Their disciplined defense and cohesive team effort helped them top their group, drawing admiration from football purists and casual fans