World Cup after decades of absence

In this historic, expanded edition of the 2026 World Cup, the excitement isn’t limited to the big names; it extends to include the return of teams that have long been absent from the global stage, before re-establishing themselves in a footballing moment that carries sporting, fan-based and even political dimensions.

Seven teams have rewritten their history, breaking decades of absence, in stories that reflect profound shifts in the structure of the game.

Democratic Republic of the Congo — Breaking a half-century-long curse

After a 52-year absence since their sole appearance in 1974, the Democratic Republic of the Congo national team succeeded in returning to the World Cup via gruelling African qualifiers.

Qualification came after a decisive 1-0 victory over Gambia in the final round of the intercontinental play-offs, in a match characterised by physical strength and tactical discipline, as the ‘Panthers’ brought an end to one of the continent’s longest absences.

Haiti — The Caribbean World Cup dream comes back to life

Haiti followed in Congo’s footsteps, returning in turn 52 years after their historic participation in 1974.

Qualification for the World Cup for the second time came after a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua in a stunning upset in the qualifiers, overcoming all difficulties, most notably the fact that the players hold their training camps 500 kilometres from Haiti, on the island of Curaçao, off the coast of Venezuela.

Iraq — A comeback with a taste of challenge

Forty years after its sole appearance at the 1986 World Cup, the Iraqi national team has returned thanks to a solid qualifying campaign. They played 21 matches before the decisive moment came in a crucial match against a strong opponent like Bolivia, whom they defeated 2-1 in a historic match.

Iraq is the eighth Arab team to qualify for the World Cup, following Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Jordan.

Scotland — The end of a long European wait

Scotland ended a 28-year absence dating back to the 1998 World Cup, after the Scottish team made history and qualified for the World Cup following a dramatic and thrilling 4-2 victory over visitors Denmark in the final round of Group C matches in the European qualifiers.

This qualification came amidst raucous support from the fans, bringing back memories of the glories of Scottish football, the return of which had been long awaited.

Norway — The Golden Generation Delivers on Its Promise

Norway returned to the World Cup for the first time since 1998, benefiting from its current generation, which has finally succeeded in translating potential into achievement. The qualifying match came with a clear victory in the final round against Italy.

This qualification reflected a remarkable offensive development, led by Erling Haaland and his teammates, and ended years of failure to reach the finals.

Austria — A World Cup return through tactical discipline

After an absence since 1998, Austria succeeded in making its mark through a strong qualifying campaign based on defensive organisation and attacking efficiency.

Qualification came after a thrilling battle in the qualifiers, in which they topped Group H to secure their place at the World Cup for the eighth time in their history and a return after 28 years.

Turkey — Regaining its continental standing

Although their most recent appearance was relatively recent at the 2002 World Cup, their absence from several editions gave Turkey’s return a special significance.

Qualification came 24 years later following a decisive 1-0 victory in the play-off final against Kosovo, in which the Turks displayed strong character and excellent organisation, confirming their return to the European and global stage.

The significance of the comeback: more than just World Cup qualification

Ultimately, the return of these teams is not merely a matter of the number of years they have been absent, but of the ability of entire generations to break the deadlock and rewrite history. From stadiums abandoned by dreams to the World Cup stage, these stories prove that football recognises only those who impose themselves at the decisive moment.

Amidst the tears of waiting and the joy of qualification, seven returnees arrive to confirm that the road to the World Cup may be long… but it is never closed.

Featured image via the Canary