This is how it can succeed
This country is hoping for its first World Cup participation
October 13, 2025 – 8:29 a.mReading time: 2 minutes
The Faroe Islands surprise in World Cup qualifying with a win against the Czech Republic and continue to dream of their first major tournament. But the road to the play-offs is rocky.
With just around 55,000 inhabitants, but with even greater fighting spirit: The Faroe Islands pulled off a surprise in the World Cup qualification and defeated the Czech Republic 2-1 (0-0). The number 136 in the FIFA world rankings celebrated its third victory in a row – the hope of participating in the first World Cup is still alive.
In Torshavn, Hanus Sörensen (67th) and Martin Agnarsson (81st) scored the goals for the underdogs. The Czech Republic, who started the game as clear favorites, only managed to equalize temporarily through Adam Karabec (78′). Thanks to their success, the Faroe Islands reduced the gap to the Czechs in the Group L table to one point.
At the top of the table is Croatia, which struggled against Gibraltar for a long time, but ultimately prevailed 3-0 (1-0). The goals for the World Cup third place were scored by Toni Fruk (30th), Luka Sučić (78th) and Martin Erlić (90th + 6th). Lovro Majer from VfL Wolfsburg missed a penalty in the 57th minute. Croatia is three points ahead of the Czech Republic and has also played one game less. One point from the remaining two games is enough for the team to win the group.
However, the initial situation remains difficult for the Faroe Islands. In order to reach second place and thus the chance of a play-off game, at least a draw is needed in Croatia on November 14th. At the same time, the Czech Republic would have to lose points against Gibraltar. Only under these conditions would it be possible for the Faroe Islands to take part in a major tournament for the first time.