FIFA World Cup is one of the biggest sporting events in the world. The FIFA World Cup is held every four years, where some of the best football-playing countries across the globe compete with each other. FIFA has 208 members. Although only one country can lift the World Cup trophy, all other countries play well for their nation with full zeal and prowess.
Here is the list of the 10 best football nations in the world, based on their success rate:
1. Brazil
This should not come as a surprise that Brazil is the most successful team in football history. Brazil is the birthplace of some best footballers of all time. When people think about football, they think about Brazil and Pele.
This south American country is known for its exciting style of play and dominance in the world cup over the years. The main strength of this football team is excellent midfielders and wingers.
Brazil has won the world cup 5 times, making this team the most successful national team in FIFA World Cup. Brazil has a very unique playing style, dribbling is a very essential part of the game. Football is like a religion in this country. Hence, a large pool of passionate players.
2. Germany
Germany holds the record of playing 8 World Cup finals played by any nation ever. The team has managed to win 4 times, the rest of the time Germany ended up as runners-up. Also, Germany has produced great players like Oliver Kahn, Miroslav Klose, and many more.
German players are known for their patience and their ability to turn any game around. Germany has secured their major wins during penalties. Out of 6 shoot-outs they have managed to win 4 major tournaments. This country has produced some of the best footballers in the world.
3. Italy
The Italian team national team is known to have the craziest fan base and rightly so, for their four-time World Cup win. Italy has produced great players like Roberto Baggio, Paolo Rossi, and Francesco Totti to name some.
Italian players are known for their flexibility, a caution-controlled game, and their attacking skill set. This playing style works for them because Italian players are mentally strong and full of stamina. Also, Italy has some world-class football clubs like AC Milan and Inter Milan.
4. Argentina
Argentina is all time favorite team of football lovers across the globe. The Argentinian team has won two World Cup titles. This country has produced exceptional footballers like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
Maradona is often considered the greatest footballer in the world. Argentina is never short on talent. Their football playing style is extremely offensive and rough. Even during the time of Maradona, this team has surprised fans by making and rebuilding records in the football world.
5. Uruguay
Uruguay won 2 World Cup titles in 1930 and 1950, this nation has been missing from the international platform for decades. This South American Nation has won 15 titles in Copa America. Major talents like Diego Forlan and Luis Suarez have been a part of the national team pushing it toward victory.
Uruguay is expected to become a threat in international competitions for years to come. they are often considered as the dark horse with awkward playing style and a tenacious attitude, but it is worth remembering how successful they have been in Copa America.
6. France
France won 2 World Cup titles in 1998 and 2018. The defending champions have already bagged a place in the knockout stage at FIFA World Cup 2022. The country has produced players like Theirry Henry and Legends like Zinedine Zidane. Most recently Kylian Mbappe has put this country on the map again.
The French are known to play No-Nonsense football, with defensive formation. They have also won 2 UEFA European championships and 2 FIFA Confederation Cups.
7. Spain
The Spaniards have won one World Cup title. The 2010 World Cup was their first victory. The Spanish style of playing is called ‘Tiki-Tika’ and is characterized by short passing and high importance on possession.
Spain also has one of the best football clubs in the world like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Notable players like Xavi, David Villa, and Raul have all been a part of the national team.
8. The Netherlands
This is the most underrated team, nobody wants to face it in international competitions. The dutch have played in World Cup finals three times. Despite losing the title three times, they have managed to win one European championship.
Many formidable players like Marco Van Basten and Robin Van Persie are from the Netherlands. Dutch Football is known for its patience, early deep pass to set up the attack, and free man to exploit goal-scoring opportunities. Their game is said to be very rotational and fluid.
9. England
England is always considered a threat in international football competitions. The English managed to win one FIFA World Cup in 1966 at their home ground. The team has never won a European championship. However, England has one of the best football leagues in the world.
Famous football clubs like Manchester City and Newcastle United are world-renowned. Despite having produced talents like Wayne Rooney and David Beckham, Unfortunately, England has not been able to make a mark on international football.
English players are known to be very physical during a game, Hence becoming very brutal for foreign players playing in clubs.
10. Russia
Russia’s success mainly originates from the Soviet Union. The Soviets have played two world cup finals against Italy in 1934 and Brazil in 1962. Russia has not been able to make a mark on international football ever since.
The country has had many successes in the European Cup. They won the European Cup in 1960 and were runner-up in 1946,1972,1988. The Soviets have produced players like Lev Yashin, who is considered the greatest footballer of all time.
For now, Russian Club and National team are banned from FIFA and UEFA until further notice.
Other Prominent Mentions In FIFA World Cup
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Portugal
- Switzerland
- Japan
- Senegal
- Iran
- Denmark
Football is considered a beautiful game. And so it should, the amount of technique and dedication put towards playing the game is simply beautiful to watch. Every Nation fights tooth and nail to bring the most sought trophy home. Players will tell you what an incredible feeling it is to lift the trophy. Probably the best feeling of their life.