The Federated States of Micronesia have never taken part in an official FIFA match, but the 2023 Micro Futsal Cup could end up being the first step in the long journey to recognition
In September 2023, the first qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup will take place, but the 2026 competition is yet another which will have no involvement from the Federated States of Micronesia.
The Pacific nation, made up of four island states, has very little in the way of competitive football heritage thanks to a combination of factors. Its population of just over 100,000 – roughly equivalent to Jersey and about 20,000 more than European microstate Andorra – but more than 2,000km separates the furthest points in the country.
Put into context, that’s roughly the distance between London and Marrakech. The sparse population, large distances and infrequent flights make any organised sport a challenge, as does a landscape vulnerable to flooding, but the Micro Futsal Cup – the first tournament of its kind with teams from all four islands – is looking to change that.
Some 20 years have passed since a senior team representing all four islands played official matches. An under-23 squad suffered heavy losses in an attempted 2015 comeback, but there has still been no movement on FIFA recognition.