The Road to Russia: The Story of World Cup Dreams and Heartbreak

Published: Dec. 28, 2017, 5 p.m.

Relive the highs and lows on the road to Russia 2018. Over two years ago, teams from 210 nations began the qualification campaign for next year's World Cup. There was joy for Panama and Iceland. Syria went close despite the civil war. And there was heartbreak for Italy, the USA and Ivory Coast. From the earliest matches in the Himalayas, to Peru claiming the final spot, this is story of World Cup qualification. (Photo: ERNESTO BENAVIDES/AFP/Getty Images)