Sweden as the hosts and West Germany, as the defending champions, qualified automatically, leaving 14 spots open for competition.

Denmark, East Germany, Iceland and the Soviet Union made their debuts in World Cup qualification.

A special play-off was created between Israel and the runner-up of one of the UEFA/CONMEBOL/CCCF/NAFC Groups, where the teams played against each other on a home-and-away basis, with the winner qualifying.

Two-time champions Uruguay withdrew, while Northern Ireland and Italy had one final match yet to play, so all three were left out.

Belgium, Bulgaria, Wales, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Spain, Peru, Bolivia and Costa Rica were left to draw.