When Was the Last Time El Salvador Qualified for the World Cup?
Quick answer: 1982 in Spain. El Salvador have qualified twice (1970 and 1982) and have not qualified since.
El Salvador last qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 1982 in Spain. La Selecta have appeared at only two tournaments — 1970 in Mexico and 1982 in Spain — and have not returned to the finals since.
For the full national team record, see the El Salvador team page.
El Salvador World Cup Qualification Record
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Times qualified | 2 (1970, 1982) |
| Last qualification | 1982 (Spain) |
| World Cup matches | 6 played |
| Wins | 0 |
| Goals scored | 1 (Luis Ramírez Zapata vs Hungary, 1982) |
1970: First Appearance in Mexico
El Salvador qualified for their first World Cup in 1970 in Mexico. Their campaign was overshadowed by the Football War with Honduras — a conflict partly sparked by tensions during the qualifying matches.
Results in 1970: - Lost 3-0 to Belgium - Lost 4-0 to hosts Mexico - Lost 2-0 to USSR
1982: Last Qualification in Spain
El Salvador's most recent World Cup was 1982 in Spain. They lost all three group matches:
| Match | Result |
|---|---|
| Hungary vs El Salvador | 10-1 (largest World Cup defeat ever) |
| Belgium vs El Salvador | 1-0 |
| Argentina vs El Salvador | 2-0 |
Luis Ramírez Zapata scored El Salvador's only World Cup goal in the 64th minute against Hungary — a historic moment despite the record defeat.
How Many Times Has El Salvador Qualified?
Twice — 1970 and 1982. Both times they were eliminated in the group stage without a point.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last time El Salvador qualified for the World Cup?
1982 in Spain. El Salvador have not qualified since.
Has El Salvador ever qualified for the World Cup?
Yes — 1970 and 1982. They have not qualified since 1982.
How many times has El Salvador been in the World Cup?
Twice — 1970 and 1982.
Has El Salvador ever won a World Cup match?
No. El Salvador are 0 wins, 0 draws, 6 losses across six World Cup matches.
Has El Salvador ever won the World Cup?
No. El Salvador have never won the FIFA World Cup or even a single World Cup match.