84 days to the World Cup: Belgium and Mexico keep coming back. The trophy never follows

Few teams have made it to the World Cup more often than Belgium and Mexico. And yet, they still haven't won it.

Since 1930, only 10 countries have made at least 15 World Cup appearances. Of those 10, only Mexico (18) and Belgium (15) have yet to be crowned champions.

Mexico's best performances have come at the two World Cups it hosted in 1970 and 1986. Does that bode well for El Tri's chances in 2026 when they co-host with Canada and the United States? Belgium was one of the teams at the first World Cup 96 years ago, and while they've reached the last four, their "Golden Generation" was able to deliver only a third-place finish in 2018.

At least Belgium and Mexico have experienced some level of success at World Cups. It could be worse. Scotland has qualified for nine, but has yet to ever advance beyond the group stage.

The Scots have only four wins in 23 World Cup matches. After having not qualified since 1998, they will be a part of this summer's tournament still chasing that elusive fourth game.