The preliminary draw has finally marked the beginning of the long journey to the next World Cup. Some groups look very tough – like Ivory Coast and Morocco in African Group C or Spain and France in European Group I. 203 countries are competing for the 32 qualifying seats, a record so far in World Cup history. How many underdogs will make it this time?
Here are 3 of the less obvious reasons for which a team qualifies for a World Cup:
- How well the national federation has negotiated the availability of key players with the clubs. In these times where clubs have enormous bargaining power, this factor can become key in maximizing the chances of qualifying.
- The backing of the press. Of course, media must play a critical role but do this constructively. When the press comes down on a team, the more so when its players are inexperienced, the damage can be tremendous.
- The presence of a charismatic captain is extremely important. When things get tough, and they often do during the cut-throat qualifying matches, the role of the captain is key in cementing the team together and in the communication with the coach.
Maracanazos wish good luck to the 203 contenders!