A big win at Eden Park on Monday night has sent the New Zealand All Whites to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The team defeated New Caledonia 3–0, securing their spot in the world’s biggest football tournament for the first time since 2010.
Defender Michael Boxall scored his first international goal in the second half, helping lead the All Whites to victory. A crowd of 25,000 fans cheered at Eden Park as the team celebrated the exciting moment. “Just to see everyone’s reaction… was pretty cool,” said Boxall, who had also been part of the team that narrowly missed the 2022 World Cup.
Young player Tyler Bindon, who is seen as a rising star, said it felt like a dream come true. “It’s what you dream of as a kid… and to be able to do it at home as well,” he shared after the match.
The game started off nervously. The All Whites had trouble breaking through New Caledonia’s strong defence in the first half. Things got even more tense when star striker Chris Wood had to leave the field with a leg injury.
Despite those challenges, the team stayed strong. With goals and teamwork, they secured a place in the World Cup, which will be held in 2026. Boxall said the team now faces a tough 15 months of preparation, but the entire country can be proud.
