Slovakia

Slovakia, the Falcons, forged their own footballing identity after independence in 1993, drawing on the proud central-European heritage once shared with the Czech lands. A combative and organized side, the Slovaks have grown into regular contenders for major tournaments.

Slovakia made a memorable World Cup debut as an independent nation in 2010, knocking out defending champions Italy 3-2 in a thrilling group-stage finale to reach the round of 16 — their best and only finals appearance to date. Before independence, players from the region contributed to Czechoslovakia's two World Cup final appearances. The Falcons continue to build on that bright debut as they chase a return to the global stage.