2018 FIFA World Cup: Iceland to make tournament debut against Argentina

World
Europe

02:27

Now more on the FIFA World Cup and a good old fashioned underdog story. Iceland has a population of just 340,000 people. Despite that, the country reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2016 and is now set to play in its first World Cup. So what is the secret to their success? Dan Williams has the story.

Moscow is awash with football fans from across the globe. But one of the noisiest sets of supporters come from the smallest country, in terms of population, to ever qualify for a World Cup. Iceland is making its World Cup tournament debut. But having reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2016, embarrassing England along the way, this is a side unlikely to wilt under the spotlight.

HEIMAR HALLGRIMSSON ICELAND COACH "Our goal is to progress from the group. That is our goal, if you're asking about what we think is good. If we do that, we've left behind two really good teams and then we shouldn't fear anyone who we face after that."

Iceland begins its campaign against two-time winner Argentina -- again led by star forward Lionel Messi. It's a daunting challenge, but Iceland's fans remain confident their side will rise to the occasion.

"Iceland is going to win. Pretty easy 1-0 maybe. They are going to try and keep the ball a lot. But we defend really well as a team and we are going to hit them on the break-away."

"I think team says it all. We don't have famous names but we have a great team. Everyone is talking about Messi. We don't have any names. We have a team. So that is why we have come so far."

DAN WILLIAMS MOSCOW "Over the years, Iceland's fans have built a special bond with the players and the coach. But much of the success on the international stage can be attributed to an outstanding grassroots coaching system. But whatever the reason, their story should act as an inspiration to any nation."

Iceland is the underdog of its group with matches against Croatia and Nigeria to follow. But opponents be warned write this team off, at your peril. Dan Williams, CGTN, Moscow.