New Zealand became the second nation to book their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 3-0 victory over New Caledonia this morning in Auckland.
After a frustrating first half, Michael Boxall opened the scoring in the 61st minute with a towering header, marking his first international goal.
Substitute Kosta Barbarouses then doubled the lead five minutes later with a well-taken chip over goalkeeper Rocky Nyikeine, before Eli Just sealed the win with a close-range finish in the 80th minute.
However, the All Whites’ celebrations were tempered by an injury to star striker Chris Wood, who was forced off in the 54th minute with a suspected hip issue after attempting a shot.
The Nottingham Forest forward, in red-hot Premier League form, will now be assessed, leaving concerns over his availability in the lead-up to the tournament.
With the win, New Zealand join Japan and co-hosts United States, Canada, and Mexico as the first five teams confirmed for the expanded 48-team tournament in 2026.
The direct qualification marks a historic moment for the All Whites, who had previously been forced to navigate tricky intercontinental play-offs.
In past campaigns, New Zealand fell short against Mexico, Costa Rica, and Peru in the final qualification hurdle.
But with FIFA’s revamped format granting Oceania a direct spot for the first time, the All Whites can now fully shift their focus to tournament preparations, aiming to make an impact in their third-ever World Cup appearance.
