NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand is a three-time World Cup participant (1982, 2010, 2026), the sole Oceanian representative at the 2026 World Cup thanks to OFC's dedicated quota. At the 2026 World Cup, New Zealand plays in Group G against Belgium, Egypt, and Iran. Head coach Darren Bazeley, an Englishman (since 2023) and a former Watford player. The leader: Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest, 32-year-old captain and top scorer), Ben Waine, Liam Boyle.

In 1982 in Spain, New Zealand debuted at the World Cup — all three matches lost (Scotland 2:5, USSR 0:3, Brazil 0:4), but the country's first World Cup goal was scored by Steven Sumner against Scotland. After 1982: a 28-year gap. In 2010 in South Africa, the team returned to the World Cup — and became the only team unbeaten in the group stage (three draws: Slovakia 1:1, Italy 1:1, Paraguay 0:0). World champions Italy and finalist Paraguay advanced; New Zealand didn't. A unique record: a team unbeaten at the World Cup that didn't advance.

Qualifying was reshaped by the new format. Before 2026, Oceania had half a slot (0.5). With the new 48-team format, OFC received a full slot (1). New Zealand won the OFC qualifier without issue. In Group G the main rival is Iran (the opener on June 16 in Los Angeles). Matches are in Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Seattle. Chris Wood is the only regular Premier League star.

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