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#National Teams

A graphic showing national flags and the number of years between World Cup appearances for teams with the longest gaps. — latest news and analysis.

Longest gaps between World Cup appearances

A list of national teams that returned to the FIFA World Cup after the longest absence, ranked by years between successive participations.

A football player taking a penalty kick in a World Cup shootout, with a goalkeeper in goal and a stadium crowd in the background.

History 2 days ago

World Cup Penalty Shootout Analysis: Key Stats and Trends

With the World Cup quarter-finals approaching, an analysis of all 360 penalties taken in 39 shootouts since 1982 reveals key trends. Argentina leads with six wins in seven shootouts, while the Netherlands and Spain share a record four defeats. Players going central have a lower success rate, and teams kicking first have historically had a slight edge.

Japan national football team players celebrating a goal against Tunisia

Matches 2 weeks ago

Japan secure fourth consecutive win against Tunisia

Japan have recorded their fourth straight victory over Tunisia. Fans are being asked to vote for their Man of the Match.