Overview

• 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.