Teams That Left Their Mark on the World Cup
There are a number of teams that have left their mark on the World Cup. Cameroon made it to seven out of the last eight World Cups before failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. Other teams that have failed to qualify include Italy and Portugal. Tunisia is one team that made the World Cup but never reached the final.
Cameroon made seven of the last eight World Cups before not qualifying in 2018
Cameroon have qualified for the World Cup seven times in the last eight tournaments, but did not qualify for this year’s tournament. The African nation has never reached the semi-finals of a World Cup, but it has produced a quarter-finalist in 1990 and two quarter-finalists in 2002 and 2010. Other countries that have failed to qualify for the World Cup are Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia.
Italy and Portugal failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup
Portugal and Italy failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Both teams have failed to qualify for a major tournament in the past, but both were European Champions before their recent exits. The Portuguese team is likely to take the spotlight at the World Cup, with superstar Cristiano Ronaldo expected to take center stage. Meanwhile, Italy, the reigning European champion, will play North Macedonia in the semifinals. Both countries will be hoping to advance to the finals.
Tunisia’s defense at the World Cup
Tunisia’s back line has a mix of experience and youth. Their center backs are all big and strong. There are two new players in the group. French-born center back Ellyes Skhiri and Tunis-based midfielder Yohan Benalouane can play either position. Both are capable of operating as wingers in a five-man midfield.
Uruguay’s failure to reach the finals
Uruguay’s failure to qualify for the World Cup has been a cause for frustration for the South American country. Although they started their qualifying campaign well, winning matches against Chile and Bolivia in Montevideo, they have slipped off the pace since. In fact, they’ve only scored three goals in their last six games. Nevertheless, they boast star players like Luis Suarez, Edinson Cavani and Diego Forlan.
South Korea’s Heung-Min Son
Heung-Min Son’s goal against Chile on Wednesday was the only goal of the game, but he missed a glorious opportunity to double the lead. On 66 minutes, Son’s low left-footed effort went wide of the far post. But Chile’s Brereton Diaz tried his best to equalize, and Son’s free-kick from outside the box gave South Korea a 2-0 lead.
South Africa’s performance at the World Cup
South Africa’s third World Cup triumph was an inspiring achievement, but the story goes much deeper than the rugby match. For example, the team’s first black captain, Siya Kolisi, was born in a slum and his parents were teenage immigrants. As a result, he had a unique perspective on the country’s struggle and its challenges.
