New Zealand Secures 2026 World Cup Spot with 3-0 Victory Over New Caledonia

The All Whites qualify for their third World Cup as Oceania's top team, but captain Chris Wood's injury raises concerns.

New Zealand defeated New Caledonia 3-0 in the Oceania final, earning direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
This marks New Zealand's third World Cup appearance, following qualifications in 1982 and 2010.
Michael Boxall scored his first international goal in the 61st minute, breaking a scoreless deadlock after a strong New Caledonia defense in the first half.
Kosta Barbarouses and Elijah Just added goals in the second half, securing the victory despite the early exit of captain Chris Wood due to a hip injury.
New Caledonia retains a chance to qualify for the World Cup through the intercontinental playoffs, which will determine the tournament's final spots.