1. United States
The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) shocked fans around the world when they failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup. It was the first time since 1986 that the team missed out on the tournament. Despite having a solid fan base and a growing interest in soccer, the USMNT’s performance fell short during the qualifying matches.
2. Italy
One of the most successful footballing nations in history, Italy, will also be missing from the 2022 World Cup. The Azzurri, as they are commonly known, failed to qualify for the tournament for the first time in six decades. Their absence comes as a shock to fans worldwide, as Italy has won the World Cup four times, the most recent of which was in 2006.
3. Netherlands
The Netherlands National Football Team, colloquially known as the Oranje, will not be participating in the upcoming World Cup either. Despite finishing as the runners-up in the 2010 World Cup, falling to Spain in the final, the Dutch team failed to qualify in 2018 and will continue their absence this year. This absence is particularly noticeable, given their vibrant playing style and strong footballing heritage.
4. Chile
Chile’s national team, known as La Roja, will not be making an appearance in this World Cup. Chile made a name for themselves in recent years, winning the Copa America twice in a row in 2015 and 2016. However, their journey to qualify for the tournament was fraught with disappointment, and they were unable to secure a spot among the world’s top footballing nations.
5. Ghana
Ghana, a prominent team in African football, will also be absent from the 2022 World Cup. The Black Stars have been a force to reckon with on the continent, making it to the quarterfinals in the 2010 World Cup. However, their campaign for qualification fell short, and Ghana will have to watch the tournament from the sidelines this time.
While the World Cup brings together the best teams from around the globe, not every footballing nation gets to participate. The absence of teams like the United States, Italy, Netherlands, Chile, and Ghana highlights the competitiveness and unpredictability of the qualifying stages. As fans eagerly await the tournament, these teams will have to regroup, strategize, and prepare for their next opportunity to shine on the world stage.