The All Whites have secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a commanding 3-0 victory over New Caledonia at Eden Park.
After a tense, goalless first half marked by tough defending and an outstanding goalkeeping performance from Rocky Nyikéïne, the breakthrough came when Michael Boxall headed home from a corner just after Chris Wood’s injury-enforced departure.
Substitute Kosta Barbarouses doubled the lead moments later with a sublime chip, and Elijah Just sealed the win in the 80th minute.
Coach Darren Bazeley’s side can now look ahead to representing New Zealand in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year, as fans celebrate a successful qualifying campaign.
