New Zealand Secures 2026 FIFA World Cup Spot, New Caledonia Eyes Intercontinental Playoff

New Zealand defeated New Caledonia 3-0 in the Oceania Zone final, while the Pacific island nation remains in contention for its first-ever World Cup qualification through a playoff.

New Zealand qualified for their third FIFA World Cup after a 3-0 victory over New Caledonia in the Oceania Zone final at Eden Park, Auckland.
Michael Boxall, Kosta Barbarouses, and Elijah Henry Just scored for New Zealand, securing their place in the 2026 World Cup in North America.
New Caledonia’s goalkeeper, Nyikeine Rocky, made a key error leading to the first goal, which shifted momentum in New Zealand's favor.
Despite the loss, New Caledonia will compete in an intercontinental playoff involving six teams vying for two remaining World Cup spots.
This marks the closest New Caledonia, a French overseas territory, has come to World Cup qualification, highlighting their growth as a footballing nation.