Many Barcelona players will feature in the 2018 World Cup next summer in Russia. However, there are some players with work to do as qualifying winds down.
2018 World Cup qualifying is beginning to wind down for many places. A few teams have already qualified for the World Cup and many spots remain for automatic qualification. Also, there are a few playoff spots for teams that didn’t win their group or things of the like. Barcelona players have been through a rigorous international break this time around. As qualifying comes to a close, there are players that have unfortunately missed the World Cup. However, many players have already qualified or still have a chance to qualify.
Despite their best efforts, Jasper Cillessen and Arda Turan could not lead the Netherlands and Turkey to the World Cup. Cillessen and the Netherlands not making the World Cup is one of the biggest shockers in recent memory. This is followed by the Netherlands failing to qualify for the 2016 European Championships. It is a huge disappointment for one of the best European footballing nations. Surely, Cillessen and the rest of his teammates are disappointed with the results.
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Despite Cillessen and Arda missing the World Cup finals, there are a few players who have already qualified for the finals. Brazil, Belgium, Spain, and Germany have all booked their place in Russia next summer. In addition to that, Uruguay has all but qualified. This means players like Luis Suarez, Gerard Pique, Andres Iniesta, Paulinho, Marc Andre Ter Stegen, and more Barca stars will play in Russia next summer.
The biggest story remaining for Barcelona players in World Cup qualifiers is the status of Argentina. The South American power is in grave danger of missing the World Cup after struggling through qualifying. It would be a travesty if Javier Mascherano and Lionel Messi missed the World Cup finals. However, Argentina hasn’t been able to get wins against teams they should beat. They still have a chance, but it will take a Herculean effort from Messi to get his team to Russia or the playoffs.
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Overall, there are a lot of stories going into the final stages of World Cup qualifying. The footballing world is on pins and needles looking towards Russia. The agony of defeat and the joys of victory will be shown as some of the most important matches of the year are played. We will see if more Barca players will represent their country in the World Cup.