New Zealand Men’s U19 team bags World Cup ticket

The New Zealand Men’s Under 19 soccer team has secured its spot for the 2027 FIFA Under 20 World Cup in Azerbaijan/Uzbekistan.

Representing Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the two qualifier finalists, New Zealand and Tahiti, will proceed on, marking 7 appearances for the Kiwis and 3 for Tahiti.

In nail-biting finals, New Zealand beat Tahiti in a 2-nil victory to seal their tenth consecutive win at the OFC championship in Apia/Samoa.

The Junior All Whites made a hard-fought battle to their title despite having faced the stubborn Tahitian side, holding the boys scoreless until late in the second half with an own goal.

Former Hamilton Wanderers forward Harley Hill then sealed the crown for the Kiwis in the second half, adding on to the country’s record of ten championship titles.

Junior All Whites Captain Alex Lienard proved his leadership role as he was named man of the match.

Speaking to OFC Media, New Zealand player, Oliver Grosso highlights the bonding between the players and teamwork in booking their spot in the U20 World Cup.

“Over the past few weeks everyone’s come out of their shells, and we’ve all bonded well together. It’s been an experience that I’ll never forget and every one of the boys is my brother now, so it’s amazing.”

it’s going to be great for everyone, and he hopes to play along his teammates again,” he added.

He then thanked everyone at home for supporting the team in their tournament and making it a special moment for the boys.

In the bronze medal play offs, Solomon Islands beat New Caledonia in a 1-nil victory, claiming the third place of the tournament.