A nation with just over 55,000 people is about to achieve a World Cup qualifying miracle

Despite having only 55,000 inhabitants, the Faroe Islands are writing an extraordinary story as they approach qualification for the 2026 World Cup play-offs.

The football world is witnessing one of the most remarkable stories of the decade—the unbelievable journey of the Faroe Islands national team, a country with just 55,000 people that is earning the admiration of all Europe.

With a population barely exceeding 55,000, the Faroe Islands continue to fight tenaciously for their 2026 World Cup dream. After the European qualifiers, this small team is third in Group L, just one point behind the Czech Republic. Their chance to reach the World Cup play-offs remains, though it is very challenging.

This miracle becomes even more astonishing when looking back at recent matches. Faroe crushed Montenegro 4-0 and then stunned Europe by beating the Czech Republic 2-1 in what was considered a major upset.

In that match, Hanus Sorensen opened the scoring with a stunning long-range shot, before Adam Karabec equalized for the visitors. But in the 81st minute, Martin Agnarsson capitalized on a defensive error by the Czech defenders to net the decisive goal, securing a historic win.

This marks the Faroe Islands’ third consecutive victory. Remarkably, they have never lost by more than one goal throughout the qualifying campaign. Previously, this team had never won more than two matches in a single qualifying round, but now that number has risen to four.

However, their extraordinary journey is not over yet. This small nation will visit Croatia, the group leaders, on November 14. If they create another shock, they could fully open the door to the 2026 World Cup play-offs—an unprecedented achievement in the history of this tiny nation.

If they qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Faroe Islands will become the smallest country ever to participate in the world’s biggest football event, proving that football is not only for the giants but also for dreams that dare to push boundaries.