Tiny Faroe Islands took a big step toward its first World Cup on Sunday with a stunning 2-1 win against the Czech Republic.

Ranked 136th by FIFA, the nation with a population of less than 55,000 put itself in contention for the playoffs for next year's tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The Faroe Islands, located halfway between Scotland and Iceland, has a land area of just 540 square miles. It has long been a minnow of European soccer and at its lowest point was ranked 198th.

But a run of four wins from its last five qualifying matches has seen it climb to third in Group L. Victory against the second-placed Czechs means just one point separates the teams in the likely race to be runner-up in the group and secure a place in the playoffs.

Substitute Martin Agnarsson sco

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