3.Northern Ireland (1.85 million)
Population – 1.8 million
Qualified – 1958, 1982, 1986
Best performance – 1958 (Quarter Finals), 1982 (Second Group Stage)
Memorable match – 1982 World Cup: Spain 0-1 Northern Ireland
Of the five countries on this list, Northern Ireland has been the most successful. The country representing one of the world’s oldest football associations, the Irish Football Association, has qualified three times. Northern Ireland could have qualified in 2018 as well, was it not for a disputed penalty decision in their play-off with Switzerland. The country has also risen to fame off the pitch, with their fans, the Green and White Army, often being labeled the best football supporters in Europe. In 1958, Northern Ireland wasn’t really supposed to qualify for the 1958 World Cup since they were in a group with double-world champions Italy and only one team would go through. But qualify they did, thanks to a draw in Portugal and the disastrous away form of Italy ensured Northern Irelands qualified.
The country’s memorable moment was their 1-0 win over hosts Spain in Valencia. For the Northern Irish, it was yet again the French who knocked them out, beating them 4-1. In 1986, Northern Ireland qualified again. This time they finished third in a tough group with Brazil, Spain, and Algeria. They lost out on the Second Stage by one goal.