Cyprus have been trying to qualify for a major competition since 1962 but have failed to qualify making them one of the weakest teams in Europe. Cyprus played its first match in 1960 against Israel drawing the match 1 - 1. They posted their first competitive win in 1968 over Switzerland.

Cyprus only managed to gain four points in the 2006 World Cup qualifying group stages. These points were gained against the Faroe Islands, a 2 - 2 draw at home and a 3 - 0 away win. Despite a poor points return Cyprus were no push over's and gave teams a good game.