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New Caledonia Advances to Oceania Final for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification

A 3-0 victory over Tahiti, led by Georges Gope-Fenepej's two goals, sets up a decisive match against New Zealand on March 24.

  • New Caledonia defeated Tahiti 3-0 in the Oceania semi-final, securing a spot in the final against New Zealand.
  • Georges Gope-Fenepej scored twice, with Lues Waya adding a third goal in stoppage time to seal the victory.
  • The winner of the March 24 final will qualify directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the runner-up will enter inter-confederation playoffs.
  • New Caledonia faces significant challenges, including limited domestic football activity and reliance on players based in mainland France.
  • New Zealand, historically dominant in the Oceania region, poses a formidable challenge for New Caledonia in the upcoming final.
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