PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 09: Detail of the FIFA World Cup Trophy during the UEFA Nations League A group one match between France and Netherlands at Stade de France on September 9, 2018 in Paris, France. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
San Marino, the micro-nation nestled in northern-central Italy, faces a paradoxical situation in their quest for World Cup qualification. They can secure a place in the upcoming 2026 World Cup, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, but only if they continue their long-standing trend of defeats. Since beginning their qualifying journey in 1994, San Marino has not won a single match, amassing just two points from 83 games.
The odds are stacked against them, yet San Marino’s hopes hinge on a complex series of events. Currently, their record in the qualification campaign shows seven games played, zero wins, zero draws, and seven losses, with a staggering 32 goals conceded and only one scored. Despite these challenges, their participation in the UEFA Nations League has provided a glimmer of hope.
Historical Context and Recent Performance
San Marino’s footballing history features notable moments, including a famous goal scored by Davide Gualtieri against England in 1993. Gualtieri’s strike just 8.3 seconds into the match remains the fastest goal in World Cup qualifying history, although the team ultimately lost 7-1. Fast forward to the present, and the team is attempting to qualify for the next World Cup with a record that raises eyebrows.
In the Nations League, San Marino experienced a surprising turnaround. They achieved victories against Liechtenstein, marking their first competitive wins since a friendly match victory in 2004. They also managed a draw with Gibraltar, which allowed them to top their Nations League group. This success has linked their performance in the Nations League to potential World Cup play-offs, creating a unique opportunity for the team.
Path to Play-offs and Necessary Conditions
For San Marino to qualify for the World Cup play-offs, several conditions must be met. The top four highest-ranked group winners from the Nations League will secure spots in the European play-offs. Among these winners are football powerhouses such as Spain, Germany, and Portugal, all of whom are likely to qualify for the World Cup or at least the play-offs.
San Marino finds itself in a challenging position, as they are the lowest-ranked team among the Nations League winners. Currently, they sit in a group with Romania, which is third in their qualifying group. If Romania can surpass Bosnia and Herzegovina and secure a second-place finish, it could open a door for San Marino. Romania is set to face Bosnia in a crucial match before playing San Marino in their final qualifying game.
Should Romania win against Bosnia, the points and goal difference could favor San Marino’s chances. They would need to lose heavily against Romania, ideally allowing the Romanians to finish second in the group and qualify for a play-off spot. Additionally, Northern Ireland must also move into second place in their group, which requires victories against Slovakia and Luxembourg.
While the odds may seem astronomical, the prospect of San Marino competing on football’s grandest stage remains alive, albeit tenuously. The team’s journey has captivated fans and serves as a reminder that in sports, anything can happen. As San Marino continues its campaign, supporters can only dream of the incredible possibility of seeing their nation at the World Cup.
