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Home » Archives for décembre 2017

World Cup 2018: Goals, tears and earthquake alerts on the road to Russia

décembre 23, 2017
•
Gianluigi Buffon

Updated 1709 GMT (0109 HKT) November 16, 2017
With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Serbia – With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
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Poland booked their return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence, topping Group E ahead of the likes of Denmark, Montenegro and Romania.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Poland – Poland booked their return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence, topping Group E ahead of the likes of Denmark, Montenegro and Romania.
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No player scored more during European qualifying than Robert Lewandowski. The Bayern Munich striker scored 16 times at a rate of once every 56 minutes.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Poland – No player scored more during European qualifying than Robert Lewandowski. The Bayern Munich striker scored 16 times at a rate of once every 56 minutes.
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Undefeated in Group F, Gareth Southgate's England qualified for their sixth World Cup with a game to spare.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
England – Undefeated in Group F, Gareth Southgate's England qualified for their sixth World Cup with a game to spare.
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Amid the furore of Catalonia's disputed independence referendum, Spain went undefeated and qualified from Group G of European qualifying with a match to spare after beating Albania 3-0.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Spain – Amid the furore of Catalonia's disputed independence referendum, Spain went undefeated and qualified from Group G of European qualifying with a match to spare after beating Albania 3-0.
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Spearheaded by the prolific Romelu Lukaku, Roberto Martinez's Red Devils dropped just two points throughout the entirety of their Group H European qualifying campaign. Belgium averaged 4.3 goals per game, more than any other team in World Cup qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Belgium – Spearheaded by the prolific Romelu Lukaku, Roberto Martinez's Red Devils dropped just two points throughout the entirety of their Group H European qualifying campaign. Belgium averaged 4.3 goals per game, more than any other team in World Cup qualifying.
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With one ferocious sweep of his right foot against Australia, 21-year-old Yosuke Ideguchi booked Japan's place at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Japan – With one ferocious sweep of his right foot against Australia, 21-year-old Yosuke Ideguchi booked Japan's place at Russia 2018.
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Led by the likes of Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda, the Samurai Blue topped Group B by a single point to qualify for a sixth consecutive tournament.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Japan – Led by the likes of Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda, the Samurai Blue topped Group B by a single point to qualify for a sixth consecutive tournament.
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The Green Falcons beat Japan in the final round of Asian qualifying to finish second in a tightly contested group and book their place at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Saudi Arabia – The Green Falcons beat Japan in the final round of Asian qualifying to finish second in a tightly contested group and book their place at Russia 2018.
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This will be Saudi Arabia's fifth appearance at a World Cup and the first since Germany 2006. <br />
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Saudi Arabia – This will be Saudi Arabia's fifth appearance at a World Cup and the first since Germany 2006. 
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Ever present at the World Cup since 1986, the Taeguk Warriors qualified for Russia 2018 courtesy of a second place finish in Group A of Asian qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
South Korea – Ever present at the World Cup since 1986, the Taeguk Warriors qualified for Russia 2018 courtesy of a second place finish in Group A of Asian qualifying.
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A hat-trick from Lionel Messi propelled Argentina into third in the South American qualifying table and an automatic spot. It was Messi's 44th career hat-trick and his fifth for Argentina.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Argentina – A hat-trick from Lionel Messi propelled Argentina into third in the South American qualifying table and an automatic spot. It was Messi's 44th career hat-trick and his fifth for Argentina.
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Messi's Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez scored twice in Uruguay's 4-2 win over Bolivia. The win ensured La Celeste finished second in South America qualifying. Suarez missed almost two years of playing competitive football for his country after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during a group match at the World Cup in Brazil.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Uruguay – Messi's Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez scored twice in Uruguay's 4-2 win over Bolivia. The win ensured La Celeste finished second in South America qualifying. Suarez missed almost two years of playing competitive football for his country after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during a group match at the World Cup in Brazil.
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Colombia's Juan Cuadrado (C) leads a prayer after his team qualified for the 2018 World Cup following the 1-1 draw with with Peru in Lima. Colombia reached the quarterfinals in the 2014 tournament before losing 2-1 to hosts Brazil.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Colombia – Colombia's Juan Cuadrado (C) leads a prayer after his team qualified for the 2018 World Cup following the 1-1 draw with with Peru in Lima. Colombia reached the quarterfinals in the 2014 tournament before losing 2-1 to hosts Brazil.
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Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history after a 2-1 win against Costa Rica. Good news for the Panama national team but also the nation's citizens -- they were then given a public holiday by President Juan Carlos Varela.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Panama – Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history after a 2-1 win against Costa Rica. Good news for the Panama national team but also the nation's citizens -- they were then given a public holiday by President Juan Carlos Varela.
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Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will also be at the World Cup after the Euro 2016 champions leapfrogged Switzerland to top Group B of European qualifying. Johan Djourou put the ball in his own net to hand the lead to Portugal, before Fernando Santos's men doubled their lead with a 57-minute Andre Silva strike.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Portugal – Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will also be at the World Cup after the Euro 2016 champions leapfrogged Switzerland to top Group B of European qualifying. Johan Djourou put the ball in his own net to hand the lead to Portugal, before Fernando Santos's men doubled their lead with a 57-minute Andre Silva strike.
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Antoine Griezmann scored one goal and set up another for Olivier Giroud as the 1998 champions topped European Group A.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
France – Antoine Griezmann scored one goal and set up another for Olivier Giroud as the 1998 champions topped European Group A.
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Mexico became the first nation from Central American qualifying to reach Russia 2018, only conceding five goals in 15 matches.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Mexico – Mexico became the first nation from Central American qualifying to reach Russia 2018, only conceding five goals in 15 matches.
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The Tricolor joined them, qualifying for the upcoming World Cup in dramatic fashion courtesy of a header from Kendall Waston in the fifth minute of added time against Honduras.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Costa Rica – The Tricolor joined them, qualifying for the upcoming World Cup in dramatic fashion courtesy of a header from Kendall Waston in the fifth minute of added time against Honduras.
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Oscar Ramirez's men finished second in CONCACAF qualifying behind Mexico.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Costa Rica – Oscar Ramirez's men finished second in CONCACAF qualifying behind Mexico.
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A valiant performance from Sweden against Italy in November's playoff ensured the four-time winners <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/13/football/italy-sweden-world-cup-qualifiers/index.html">failed to qualify for the first time since 1958</a>.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Sweden – A valiant performance from Sweden against Italy in November's playoff ensured the four-time winners failed to qualify for the first time since 1958.
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Elsewhere, Croatia drew 0-0 in their playoff with Greece but advanced to the finals 4-1 on aggregate.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Croatia – Elsewhere, Croatia drew 0-0 in their playoff with Greece but advanced to the finals 4-1 on aggregate.
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Switzerland broke Northern Irish hearts by holding on to another goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate after a controversial penalty in the first leg.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Swizterland – Switzerland broke Northern Irish hearts by holding on to another goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate after a controversial penalty in the first leg.
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Host nation Russia qualified for the 2018 World Cup without even having to kick a ball. The most recent competitive fixtures for Stanislav Cherchesov's men came in the 2017 Confederations Cup, where they crashed out in the group stage.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Russia – Host nation Russia qualified for the 2018 World Cup without even having to kick a ball. The most recent competitive fixtures for Stanislav Cherchesov's men came in the 2017 Confederations Cup, where they crashed out in the group stage.
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The draw for the 2018 World Cup is set to take place in Moscow's Kremlin building on Friday, December 1. <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/sport">Visit CNN.com/sport for more news and features</a>
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Russia – The draw for the 2018 World Cup is set to take place in Moscow's Kremlin building on Friday, December 1. Visit CNN.com/sport for more news and features
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On Thursday 16 November, Peru became the final team to secure a World Cup spot thanks to a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the second leg of their playoff match, ensuring qualification for La Blanquirroja for the first time since 1982.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Peru – On Thursday 16 November, Peru became the final team to secure a World Cup spot thanks to a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the second leg of their playoff match, ensuring qualification for La Blanquirroja for the first time since 1982.
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Such were the magnitude of the celebrations in Lima when Jefferson Farfan put Peru 1-0 up, an <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/16/football/world-cup-russia-2018-qualification-lionel-messi-neymar-brazil-england-argentina/index.html">earthquake detector in the city was activated</a> at the exact moment of the goal.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Peru – Such were the magnitude of the celebrations in Lima when Jefferson Farfan put Peru 1-0 up, anearthquake detector in the city was activated at the exact moment of the goal.
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The Danes are also on their way to the World Cup after midfielder Christian Eriksen led the way with a hat-trick in an emphatic 5-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their playoff in Dublin.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Denmark – The Danes are also on their way to the World Cup after midfielder Christian Eriksen led the way with a hat-trick in an emphatic 5-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their playoff in Dublin.
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That treble took Eriksen's Russia 2018 qualifying campaign tally to 11 goals -- a new Danish record.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Denmark – That treble took Eriksen's Russia 2018 qualifying campaign tally to 11 goals -- a new Danish record.
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But Eriksen wasn't the only midfielder to take home the match ball during qualifying that week, with Australia's <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/14/sport/denmark-world-cup-ireland-rout/index.html">Mile Jedinak coming to the fore</a> in a 3-1 win against Honduras.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Australia – But Eriksen wasn't the only midfielder to take home the match ball during qualifying that week, with Australia's Mile Jedinak coming to the fore in a 3-1 win against Honduras.
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After 29 months, 22 matches and hundreds of thousands of miles of traveling, the Socceroos celebrated qualifying for a fourth consecutive World Cup.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Australia – After 29 months, 22 matches and hundreds of thousands of miles of traveling, the Socceroos celebrated qualifying for a fourth consecutive World Cup.
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The Atlas Lions booked their place at world football's greatest showpiece for the first time since 1998, topping Group C of African qualification without conceding a goal.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Morocco – The Atlas Lions booked their place at world football's greatest showpiece for the first time since 1998, topping Group C of African qualification without conceding a goal.
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Under manager Herve Renard, the only man to win the Africa Cup of Nations with two different countries, Morocco have won five of their past seven fixtures.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Morocco – Under manager Herve Renard, the only man to win the Africa Cup of Nations with two different countries, Morocco have won five of their past seven fixtures.
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The Lions of Teranga joined them on the plane to Russia, topping Group D undefeated at the expense of Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and South Africa.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Senegal – The Lions of Teranga joined them on the plane to Russia, topping Group D undefeated at the expense of Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and South Africa.
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It's the first time Senegal have qualified for a World Cup since 2002 when they defied the odds to reach the quarterfinals. Their captain that year, Aliou Cissé, now leads them from the dugout.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Senegal – It's the first time Senegal have qualified for a World Cup since 2002 when they defied the odds to reach the quarterfinals. Their captain that year, Aliou Cissé, now leads them from the dugout.
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A goalless draw at home to Libya on the final day was enough to see the Eagles of Carthage pip DR Congo to top spot in Group A of African qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Tunisia – A goalless draw at home to Libya on the final day was enough to see the Eagles of Carthage pip DR Congo to top spot in Group A of African qualifying.
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With a total of four World Cup group stage exits in their history, head coach Nabil Maâloul's men will hope to go at least one better at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Tunisia – With a total of four World Cup group stage exits in their history, head coach Nabil Maâloul's men will hope to go at least one better at Russia 2018.
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With a population of just 335,000, Iceland became the <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/10/football/iceland-world-cup-russia-2018/index.html">smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup</a> after beating Kosovo 2-0 to ensure the islanders topped European qualifying Group I.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iceland – With a population of just 335,000, Iceland became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup after beating Kosovo 2-0 to ensure the islanders topped European qualifying Group I.
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Trinidad & Tobago, which has a population of 1.3 million, was the previous smallest country to reach a World Cup back in 2006.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iceland – Trinidad & Tobago, which has a population of 1.3 million, was the previous smallest country to reach a World Cup back in 2006.
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Nigeria were the first team from Africa to qualify for the upcoming World Cup, seeing off Group B opponents Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Nigeria – Nigeria were the first team from Africa to qualify for the upcoming World Cup, seeing off Group B opponents Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.
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The Super Eagles have only failed to qualify for one tournament -- Germany 2006 -- since their World Cup debut in 1994.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Nigeria – The Super Eagles have only failed to qualify for one tournament -- Germany 2006 -- since their World Cup debut in 1994.
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The Pharaohs qualified for Russia 2018 <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/09/football/egypt-world-cup-el-hadary-hector-cuper-congo/index.html">with a game to spare</a>, topping Group E ahead of Ghana, Congo and Uganda to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Egypt – The Pharaohs qualified for Russia 2018 with a game to spare, topping Group E ahead of Ghana, Congo and Uganda to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
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Goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, 44, made his international debut over two decades ago. Now he could become<a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/09/football/egypt-world-cup-el-hadary-hector-cuper-congo/index.html"> the oldest player in World Cup tournament history</a>.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Egypt – Goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, 44, made his international debut over two decades ago. Now he could become the oldest player in World Cup tournament history.
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Dispelling memories of their dismal 7-1 defeat to Germany at the 2014 World Cup, Brazil topped South American qualifying with ease, finishing ahead of the likes of Uruguay, Chile, Colombia and Argentina.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Brazil – Dispelling memories of their dismal 7-1 defeat to Germany at the 2014 World Cup, Brazil topped South American qualifying with ease, finishing ahead of the likes of Uruguay, Chile, Colombia and Argentina.
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Neymar, Paulinho, Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Willian scored 23 goals between them.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Brazil – Neymar, Paulinho, Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Willian scored 23 goals between them.
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Iran became the second team after Brazil to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, topping Group A of Asian qualifying without losing a game.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iran – Iran became the second team after Brazil to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, topping Group A of Asian qualifying without losing a game.
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Led by former Portugal and Real Madrid head coach Carlos Queiroz, the Iranians will hope to add to their single World Cup win -- secured against the US at France 1998 -- in Russia next year.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iran – Led by former Portugal and Real Madrid head coach Carlos Queiroz, the Iranians will hope to add to their single World Cup win -- secured against the US at France 1998 -- in Russia next year.
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Boasting a 100% record in Group C of European qualifying, Germany could become the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962. <br />
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Germany – Boasting a 100% record in Group C of European qualifying, Germany could become the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962. 
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Topping Group D of European qualifying ahead of the Republic of Ireland, Wales and Austria, Serbia qualified for a first major international tournament since 2010.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Serbia – Topping Group D of European qualifying ahead of the Republic of Ireland, Wales and Austria, Serbia qualified for a first major international tournament since 2010.
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With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Serbia – With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
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Poland booked their return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence, topping Group E ahead of the likes of Denmark, Montenegro and Romania.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Poland – Poland booked their return to the World Cup after a 12-year absence, topping Group E ahead of the likes of Denmark, Montenegro and Romania.
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No player scored more during European qualifying than Robert Lewandowski. The Bayern Munich striker scored 16 times at a rate of once every 56 minutes.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Poland – No player scored more during European qualifying than Robert Lewandowski. The Bayern Munich striker scored 16 times at a rate of once every 56 minutes.
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Undefeated in Group F, Gareth Southgate's England qualified for their sixth World Cup with a game to spare.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
England – Undefeated in Group F, Gareth Southgate's England qualified for their sixth World Cup with a game to spare.
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Amid the furore of Catalonia's disputed independence referendum, Spain went undefeated and qualified from Group G of European qualifying with a match to spare after beating Albania 3-0.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Spain – Amid the furore of Catalonia's disputed independence referendum, Spain went undefeated and qualified from Group G of European qualifying with a match to spare after beating Albania 3-0.
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Spearheaded by the prolific Romelu Lukaku, Roberto Martinez's Red Devils dropped just two points throughout the entirety of their Group H European qualifying campaign. Belgium averaged 4.3 goals per game, more than any other team in World Cup qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Belgium – Spearheaded by the prolific Romelu Lukaku, Roberto Martinez's Red Devils dropped just two points throughout the entirety of their Group H European qualifying campaign. Belgium averaged 4.3 goals per game, more than any other team in World Cup qualifying.
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With one ferocious sweep of his right foot against Australia, 21-year-old Yosuke Ideguchi booked Japan's place at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Japan – With one ferocious sweep of his right foot against Australia, 21-year-old Yosuke Ideguchi booked Japan's place at Russia 2018.
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Led by the likes of Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda, the Samurai Blue topped Group B by a single point to qualify for a sixth consecutive tournament.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Japan – Led by the likes of Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda, the Samurai Blue topped Group B by a single point to qualify for a sixth consecutive tournament.
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The Green Falcons beat Japan in the final round of Asian qualifying to finish second in a tightly contested group and book their place at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Saudi Arabia – The Green Falcons beat Japan in the final round of Asian qualifying to finish second in a tightly contested group and book their place at Russia 2018.
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This will be Saudi Arabia's fifth appearance at a World Cup and the first since Germany 2006. <br />
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Saudi Arabia – This will be Saudi Arabia's fifth appearance at a World Cup and the first since Germany 2006. 
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Ever present at the World Cup since 1986, the Taeguk Warriors qualified for Russia 2018 courtesy of a second place finish in Group A of Asian qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
South Korea – Ever present at the World Cup since 1986, the Taeguk Warriors qualified for Russia 2018 courtesy of a second place finish in Group A of Asian qualifying.
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A hat-trick from Lionel Messi propelled Argentina into third in the South American qualifying table and an automatic spot. It was Messi's 44th career hat-trick and his fifth for Argentina.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Argentina – A hat-trick from Lionel Messi propelled Argentina into third in the South American qualifying table and an automatic spot. It was Messi's 44th career hat-trick and his fifth for Argentina.
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Messi's Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez scored twice in Uruguay's 4-2 win over Bolivia. The win ensured La Celeste finished second in South America qualifying. Suarez missed almost two years of playing competitive football for his country after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during a group match at the World Cup in Brazil.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Uruguay – Messi's Barcelona teammate Luis Suarez scored twice in Uruguay's 4-2 win over Bolivia. The win ensured La Celeste finished second in South America qualifying. Suarez missed almost two years of playing competitive football for his country after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during a group match at the World Cup in Brazil.
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Colombia's Juan Cuadrado (C) leads a prayer after his team qualified for the 2018 World Cup following the 1-1 draw with with Peru in Lima. Colombia reached the quarterfinals in the 2014 tournament before losing 2-1 to hosts Brazil.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Colombia – Colombia's Juan Cuadrado (C) leads a prayer after his team qualified for the 2018 World Cup following the 1-1 draw with with Peru in Lima. Colombia reached the quarterfinals in the 2014 tournament before losing 2-1 to hosts Brazil.
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Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history after a 2-1 win against Costa Rica. Good news for the Panama national team but also the nation's citizens -- they were then given a public holiday by President Juan Carlos Varela.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Panama – Panama qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history after a 2-1 win against Costa Rica. Good news for the Panama national team but also the nation's citizens -- they were then given a public holiday by President Juan Carlos Varela.
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Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will also be at the World Cup after the Euro 2016 champions leapfrogged Switzerland to top Group B of European qualifying. Johan Djourou put the ball in his own net to hand the lead to Portugal, before Fernando Santos's men doubled their lead with a 57-minute Andre Silva strike.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Portugal – Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal will also be at the World Cup after the Euro 2016 champions leapfrogged Switzerland to top Group B of European qualifying. Johan Djourou put the ball in his own net to hand the lead to Portugal, before Fernando Santos's men doubled their lead with a 57-minute Andre Silva strike.
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Antoine Griezmann scored one goal and set up another for Olivier Giroud as the 1998 champions topped European Group A.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
France – Antoine Griezmann scored one goal and set up another for Olivier Giroud as the 1998 champions topped European Group A.
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Mexico became the first nation from Central American qualifying to reach Russia 2018, only conceding five goals in 15 matches.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Mexico – Mexico became the first nation from Central American qualifying to reach Russia 2018, only conceding five goals in 15 matches.
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The Tricolor joined them, qualifying for the upcoming World Cup in dramatic fashion courtesy of a header from Kendall Waston in the fifth minute of added time against Honduras.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Costa Rica – The Tricolor joined them, qualifying for the upcoming World Cup in dramatic fashion courtesy of a header from Kendall Waston in the fifth minute of added time against Honduras.
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Oscar Ramirez's men finished second in CONCACAF qualifying behind Mexico.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Costa Rica – Oscar Ramirez's men finished second in CONCACAF qualifying behind Mexico.
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A valiant performance from Sweden against Italy in November's playoff ensured the four-time winners <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/13/football/italy-sweden-world-cup-qualifiers/index.html">failed to qualify for the first time since 1958</a>.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Sweden – A valiant performance from Sweden against Italy in November's playoff ensured the four-time winners failed to qualify for the first time since 1958.
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Elsewhere, Croatia drew 0-0 in their playoff with Greece but advanced to the finals 4-1 on aggregate.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Croatia – Elsewhere, Croatia drew 0-0 in their playoff with Greece but advanced to the finals 4-1 on aggregate.
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Switzerland broke Northern Irish hearts by holding on to another goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate after a controversial penalty in the first leg.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Swizterland – Switzerland broke Northern Irish hearts by holding on to another goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate after a controversial penalty in the first leg.
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Host nation Russia qualified for the 2018 World Cup without even having to kick a ball. The most recent competitive fixtures for Stanislav Cherchesov's men came in the 2017 Confederations Cup, where they crashed out in the group stage.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Russia – Host nation Russia qualified for the 2018 World Cup without even having to kick a ball. The most recent competitive fixtures for Stanislav Cherchesov's men came in the 2017 Confederations Cup, where they crashed out in the group stage.
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The draw for the 2018 World Cup is set to take place in Moscow's Kremlin building on Friday, December 1. <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/sport">Visit CNN.com/sport for more news and features</a>
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Russia – The draw for the 2018 World Cup is set to take place in Moscow's Kremlin building on Friday, December 1. Visit CNN.com/sport for more news and features
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On Thursday 16 November, Peru became the final team to secure a World Cup spot thanks to a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the second leg of their playoff match, ensuring qualification for La Blanquirroja for the first time since 1982.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Peru – On Thursday 16 November, Peru became the final team to secure a World Cup spot thanks to a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the second leg of their playoff match, ensuring qualification for La Blanquirroja for the first time since 1982.
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Such were the magnitude of the celebrations in Lima when Jefferson Farfan put Peru 1-0 up, an <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/16/football/world-cup-russia-2018-qualification-lionel-messi-neymar-brazil-england-argentina/index.html">earthquake detector in the city was activated</a> at the exact moment of the goal.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Peru – Such were the magnitude of the celebrations in Lima when Jefferson Farfan put Peru 1-0 up, anearthquake detector in the city was activated at the exact moment of the goal.
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The Danes are also on their way to the World Cup after midfielder Christian Eriksen led the way with a hat-trick in an emphatic 5-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their playoff in Dublin.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Denmark – The Danes are also on their way to the World Cup after midfielder Christian Eriksen led the way with a hat-trick in an emphatic 5-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland in their playoff in Dublin.
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That treble took Eriksen's Russia 2018 qualifying campaign tally to 11 goals -- a new Danish record.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Denmark – That treble took Eriksen's Russia 2018 qualifying campaign tally to 11 goals -- a new Danish record.
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But Eriksen wasn't the only midfielder to take home the match ball during qualifying that week, with Australia's <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/11/14/sport/denmark-world-cup-ireland-rout/index.html">Mile Jedinak coming to the fore</a> in a 3-1 win against Honduras.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Australia – But Eriksen wasn't the only midfielder to take home the match ball during qualifying that week, with Australia's Mile Jedinak coming to the fore in a 3-1 win against Honduras.
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After 29 months, 22 matches and hundreds of thousands of miles of traveling, the Socceroos celebrated qualifying for a fourth consecutive World Cup.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Australia – After 29 months, 22 matches and hundreds of thousands of miles of traveling, the Socceroos celebrated qualifying for a fourth consecutive World Cup.
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The Atlas Lions booked their place at world football's greatest showpiece for the first time since 1998, topping Group C of African qualification without conceding a goal.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Morocco – The Atlas Lions booked their place at world football's greatest showpiece for the first time since 1998, topping Group C of African qualification without conceding a goal.
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Under manager Herve Renard, the only man to win the Africa Cup of Nations with two different countries, Morocco have won five of their past seven fixtures.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Morocco – Under manager Herve Renard, the only man to win the Africa Cup of Nations with two different countries, Morocco have won five of their past seven fixtures.
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The Lions of Teranga joined them on the plane to Russia, topping Group D undefeated at the expense of Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and South Africa.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Senegal – The Lions of Teranga joined them on the plane to Russia, topping Group D undefeated at the expense of Burkina Faso, Cape Verde and South Africa.
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It's the first time Senegal have qualified for a World Cup since 2002 when they defied the odds to reach the quarterfinals. Their captain that year, Aliou Cissé, now leads them from the dugout.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Senegal – It's the first time Senegal have qualified for a World Cup since 2002 when they defied the odds to reach the quarterfinals. Their captain that year, Aliou Cissé, now leads them from the dugout.
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A goalless draw at home to Libya on the final day was enough to see the Eagles of Carthage pip DR Congo to top spot in Group A of African qualifying.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Tunisia – A goalless draw at home to Libya on the final day was enough to see the Eagles of Carthage pip DR Congo to top spot in Group A of African qualifying.
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With a total of four World Cup group stage exits in their history, head coach Nabil Maâloul's men will hope to go at least one better at Russia 2018.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Tunisia – With a total of four World Cup group stage exits in their history, head coach Nabil Maâloul's men will hope to go at least one better at Russia 2018.
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With a population of just 335,000, Iceland became the <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/10/football/iceland-world-cup-russia-2018/index.html">smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup</a> after beating Kosovo 2-0 to ensure the islanders topped European qualifying Group I.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iceland – With a population of just 335,000, Iceland became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup after beating Kosovo 2-0 to ensure the islanders topped European qualifying Group I.
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Trinidad & Tobago, which has a population of 1.3 million, was the previous smallest country to reach a World Cup back in 2006.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iceland – Trinidad & Tobago, which has a population of 1.3 million, was the previous smallest country to reach a World Cup back in 2006.
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Nigeria were the first team from Africa to qualify for the upcoming World Cup, seeing off Group B opponents Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Nigeria – Nigeria were the first team from Africa to qualify for the upcoming World Cup, seeing off Group B opponents Zambia, Cameroon and Algeria.
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The Super Eagles have only failed to qualify for one tournament -- Germany 2006 -- since their World Cup debut in 1994.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Nigeria – The Super Eagles have only failed to qualify for one tournament -- Germany 2006 -- since their World Cup debut in 1994.
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The Pharaohs qualified for Russia 2018 <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/09/football/egypt-world-cup-el-hadary-hector-cuper-congo/index.html">with a game to spare</a>, topping Group E ahead of Ghana, Congo and Uganda to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Egypt – The Pharaohs qualified for Russia 2018 with a game to spare, topping Group E ahead of Ghana, Congo and Uganda to reach the World Cup for the first time since 1990.
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Goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, 44, made his international debut over two decades ago. Now he could become<a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2017/10/09/football/egypt-world-cup-el-hadary-hector-cuper-congo/index.html"> the oldest player in World Cup tournament history</a>.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Egypt – Goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary, 44, made his international debut over two decades ago. Now he could become the oldest player in World Cup tournament history.
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Dispelling memories of their dismal 7-1 defeat to Germany at the 2014 World Cup, Brazil topped South American qualifying with ease, finishing ahead of the likes of Uruguay, Chile, Colombia and Argentina.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Brazil – Dispelling memories of their dismal 7-1 defeat to Germany at the 2014 World Cup, Brazil topped South American qualifying with ease, finishing ahead of the likes of Uruguay, Chile, Colombia and Argentina.
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Neymar, Paulinho, Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Willian scored 23 goals between them.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Brazil – Neymar, Paulinho, Gabriel Jesus, Philippe Coutinho and Willian scored 23 goals between them.
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Iran became the second team after Brazil to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, topping Group A of Asian qualifying without losing a game.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iran – Iran became the second team after Brazil to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, topping Group A of Asian qualifying without losing a game.
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Led by former Portugal and Real Madrid head coach Carlos Queiroz, the Iranians will hope to add to their single World Cup win -- secured against the US at France 1998 -- in Russia next year.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Iran – Led by former Portugal and Real Madrid head coach Carlos Queiroz, the Iranians will hope to add to their single World Cup win -- secured against the US at France 1998 -- in Russia next year.
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Boasting a 100% record in Group C of European qualifying, Germany could become the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962. <br />
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Germany – Boasting a 100% record in Group C of European qualifying, Germany could become the first team to retain the World Cup trophy since Brazil in 1962. 
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Topping Group D of European qualifying ahead of the Republic of Ireland, Wales and Austria, Serbia qualified for a first major international tournament since 2010.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Serbia – Topping Group D of European qualifying ahead of the Republic of Ireland, Wales and Austria, Serbia qualified for a first major international tournament since 2010.
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With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
Photos: Russia 2018 World Cup qualifiers
Serbia – With six goals to his name, striker Aleksander Mitrovic found the back of the net once every 119 minutes.
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Story highlights
  • Qualification for 2018 World Cup now complete
  • Peru goals sparks earthquake alert
  • Brazil, Argentina, Spain all through
(CNN)After nearly three years of fierce competition, 871 matches played, 2454 goals scored and 2965 yellow cards, the wait is over -- World Cup qualifying has come to an end and we now know who will compete next summer for the coveted trophy.
On Thursday, Peru became the final team to secure a World Cup spot thanks to a 2-0 win over New Zealand in the second leg of their playoff match, ensuring qualification for La Blanquirroja for the first time since 1982.
    Such were the magnitude of the celebrations in Lima when Jefferson Farfan put Peru 1-0 up, an earthquake detector in the city was activated at the exact moment of the goal.
    "We will clarify again," wrote Chile's official seismology page, "an earthquake alert was activated due to the underground vibration generated by the fans."
    As well as tremors, there have been plenty of surprises, and many tears, on the road to Russia but who is in and who is out? Who are the favorites and what can we expect at Russia 2018?
    African nations competing in the 2018 World Cup 00:55

    To Russia with love

    Thirty-two teams will take part in Russia 2018. The hosts were already guaranteed a place, but the others have been whittled down, courtesy of an arduous qualification procession, from 209 nations at the start of qualification to 31.
    Many of Europe's leading countries have made the cut. Four-time World Cup winners Germany, former champions France, England and Spain and Euro 2016 champions Portugal will be among the favorites. They are joined by Belgium -- who with 4.3 goals per game averaged the most goals scored in qualifying -- Switzerland, Croatia and Denmark.
    Supporters of Peru celebrate as their team beat New Zealand in the playoffs
    Supporters of Peru celebrate as their team beat New Zealand in the playoffs
    And let's not forget about Iceland, a country with a population of just 335,000, who became the smallest country to qualify for a World Cup.
    Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal and Tunisia are the qualifiers from Africa, while Australia, who scored 48 goals in qualifying -- which was more than any other country -- are through, along with fellow Asian qualifiers Iran, Japan, South Korea and Saudi Arabia.
    South America is represented by Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Uruguay and Peru, while Costa Rica, Mexico and Panama make up the slots allocated to North and Central America and the Caribbean.
    The 'Viking thunder clap' heads to Russia 2018 01:03
    READ: Denmark book World cup spot with 5-1 rout
    READ: Salah scores twice as Egypt qualifies
    READ: Iceland become smallest nation to reach World Cup

    The qualifiers

    Here are the countries who will be at Russia 2018:
    Europe:
    • Russia
    • Belgium
    • England
    • France
    • Germany
    • Iceland
    • Poland
    • Portugal
    • Serbia
    • Spain
    • Switzerland
    • Croatia
    • Sweden
    • Denmark
    Africa:
    • Egypt
    • Morocco
    • Nigeria
    • Senegal
    • Tunisia
    South America:
    • Argentina
    • Brazil
    • Colombia
    • Uruguay
    • Peru
    Asia:
    • Iran
    • Japan
    • South Korea
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Australia
    North and Central America and the Caribbean:
    • Costa Rica
    • Mexico
    • Panama
    Who do you think will win the 2018 World Cup? Have your say on CNN Sport's Facebook page

    No Buffon, Bale or Sanchez -- Major names missing

    With the joy of qualifying, there inevitably comes heartbreak for those who miss out.
    Though Russia 2018 will see the best of the best go head to head, some of world football's most recognizable faces will be absent.
    Back-to-back and reigning South American champions Chile finished sixth in qualifying, meaning the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Arturo Vidal and Claudio Bravo will be watching the World Cup on their TV screens.
    Italy, champions in 2006, will also be missing, as defeat to Sweden saw them miss out for the first time since 1958. That defeat heralded the end of the international career of Gianluigi Buffon, the most capped player in Italian history with 175 appearances.
    Gianluigi Buffon
    READ: Italy fail to qualify for World Cup
    Wales, the surprise semifinalists at Euro 2016, finished third in their qualifying group, which means the World Cup will be deprived of Real Madrid star Gareth Bale and Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey.
    Two recent ever-presents of African football, Ivory Coast and Ghana, also failed to emerge from an arduous qualifying campaign.
    Both nations had qualified for three successive World Cups but failure to reach Russia 2018 ended up costing Belgian Marc Wilmots his job as manager of Les Elephants.
    Bale has yet to play in a World Cup
    Bale has yet to play in a World Cup

    871 teams, 2454 goals - who impressed?

    Defending champions Germany are bidding to become the first team to retain the title since Brazil did so in 1962. Ranked No.1 in the world and unbeaten since their Euro 2016 semifinal defeat by France, Joachim Löw's men were peerless in qualifying, winning all 10 of their matches and scoring 43 goals in the process.
    Five-time champions Brazil became the first South American team to qualify for Russia 2018 and their form in the last 18 months has helped heal the wounds of that 7-1 semifinal thumping by Germany at their home World Cup three years ago.
    Coach Adenor Leonardo Bacchi, known as Tite, has overseen a vast improvement since he succeeded Dunga in June 2016. Brazil remain undefeated in competitive fixtures since the new man took charge and won 10 of their final 12 qualification matches.
    READ: Remembering Brazil's 'painful' World cup defeat
    Lionel Messi's journey to greatness 03:20
    With Lionel Messi in their ranks -- the Barcelona star scored an incredible hat-trick to secure Argentina's place in Russia - two-time champions Argentina are among the bookmakers' favorites, as are previous World Cup winners Spain, France and Portugal.
    Belgium have promised much with the talent at their disposal, such as Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne, and after a fine qualifying campaign -- they topped their group with an unbeaten run -- 2018 could be the year the Red Devils finally blossom.
    READ: How Drogba and his Ivory Coast teammates helped end a civil war
    Peru face biggest match in a generation 06:31

    Who will play who -- what's next?

    Now that the 32 teams have been decided, players, managers and fans wait in expectation for December 1.
    In the State Kremlin Palace, Moscow, each nation will find out who they will face in the World Cup groups, labeled A to H, and each consisting of four teams.
    Every country will be placed in pots numbered one to four (one being the highest), based on their FIFA ranking as of October 16, 2017.
    Seeding in a higher pot should, in theory, allow for easier qualification to the knockout phase of the tournament.
    Pot 1: Russia (hosts, Group A), Germany, Brazil, Portugal, Argentina, Belgium, Poland, France
    Pot 2: Spain, Switzerland, England, Colombia, Mexico, Uruguay, Croatia, Peru
    Pot 3: Iceland, Costa Rica, Sweden, Tunisia, Egypt, Senegal, Iran, Denmark
    Pot 4: Nigeria, Australia, Japan, Morocco, Panama, South Korea, Saudi Arabia, Serbia
    READ MORE
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