Bizarre qualifying rule gives team a chance only if they lose!

Bizarre World Cup Scenario!

San Marino, one of UEFA’s smallest and weakest nations, could qualify for the World Cup — if they lose to Romania

San Marino’s Struggles

They’ve lost all seven World Cup qualifiers this year, conceding 32 goals and scoring just 1

How Losing Helps

If San Marino loses to Romania, Romania could finish second in Group H, freeing up a play-off spot for San Marino as a Nations League group winner

Nations League Advantage

San Marino won their League D group in 2024/25, giving them an unusual outside chance of World Cup qualification

Play-Off Path

Two play-off wins against higher-ranked teams could secure San Marino a historic World Cup spot in the USA next year

The Catch

A Bosnia win against Romania could crush San Marino’s dreams — making their qualification a truly improbable, yet possible, feat