Who gets to play?
The winners of FIFA’s regional championships (UEFA, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, CAF, AFC, OFC), the World Cup holder and the host line up for kick off.
Which is the most successful team
Who else but Brazil! It has won four times (1997, 2005, 2009, 2013), but wouldn’t be there in Russia for a shot at its fourth straight crown. Instead, reigning Copa America champion Chile will take the field.
Who caused the biggest surprise?
Canada, anything but a football powerhouse, held the mighty Brazilians to a goalless draw in the 2001 edition in Japan/Korea. “We didn’t have a lot of the ball on the day but we weren’t fazed by that. We had some strong characters and we stood firm.” recalled Canada goalkeeper Craig Forrest.
Has there been a fairytale?
Tahiti made it to Brazil 2013 against all odds, becoming the first team other than Australia or New Zealand from the Oceania region to play in a FIFA tournament. It conceded 24 goals and tasted defeat in all its games, but stole hearts through its sheer presence. “It was our moment in the stars. I will never forget the crowds or what they did for us. It was unforgettable,” said goalkeeper Mickael Roche.
When does defeat feel like victory?
In the 2009 instalment in South Africa, Iraq coach Bora Milutinovic was over the moon despite his team losing to Spain. “I was smiling from ear to ear after the game. I was asked why I was smiling after losing a game. I saw it this way: Spain scored a goal and we didn’t. So they won, but we did not lose.”
