New Zealand compete in Group Seven of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Record:
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OFC Nations Cup winners in 1973, 1998, 2002, 2016, and 2024
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FIFA ranking: 85
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Last World Cup appearance: 2010
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Nickname: All Whites
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Top clubs: Auckland FC, Wellington Phoenix
Qualification: As the clear favourites in Oceania qualifying, the New Zealanders confirmed their status with comfortable victories including wins over Tahiti (3–0) and Vanuatu (8–1). In the decisive final match at Eden Park in Auckland — a ground more accustomed to hosting the All Blacks rugby team — the All Whites controlled New Caledonia 3–0.
Coach: After a playing career spent mainly at Watford in England in the 1990s, Darren Bazeley moved into the Australian league and also managed the New Zealand Knights. Following a long career coaching youth sides, he took charge of the senior national team in 2023.
Star player: Captain and all-time All Whites leading scorer Chris Wood (45 goals). At 34, the Auckland-born striker spent most of his career in the English Championship before making a significant impact at Nottingham Forest, which he joined in 2023. After scoring 14 Premier League goals in 2023–24, he raised his level further in 2024–25 with 20 goals. Fitness questions remain, however — he underwent knee surgery and missed most of the season, despite returning to action in early April.
Ambitions: After three defeats in three games in 1982, New Zealand showed remarkable resilience at the 2010 World Cup with three draws in three matches, coming close to advancing and finishing above Italy in the group. Claiming their first ever World Cup win would be considered an achievement at this edition, in a group featuring Iran, Egypt, and Belgium.