New Zealand
Odds to win: 500/1
Overview
New Zealand are Oceania's strongest footballing nation alongside Australia, and the All Whites have been consistent contenders for the OFC's World Cup berth. New Zealand play a direct, physical style suited to their squad of players competing across the A-League, MLS, and lower European leagues. Their team ethos reflects the broader New Zealand sporting culture of resilience, unity, and competing fiercely regardless of the odds. The co-hosting of the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup helped boost football's profile in the country. New Zealand will approach the World Cup as underdogs but with genuine belief they can compete in the group stage.
Key Players
Chris Wood
Forward · Nottingham Forest
Liberato Cacace
Defender · Empoli
Matt Garbett
Midfielder · Torino
World Cup History
New Zealand have appeared at two World Cups: 1982 in Spain, where they lost all three group matches, and 2010 in South Africa, where they achieved the remarkable feat of going unbeaten, drawing all three group matches against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay. The draw against eventual runners-up Italy remains one of the most celebrated results in New Zealand sporting history.
Group G Opponents
Fun Fact
New Zealand were the only unbeaten team at the 2010 World Cup, drawing all three group matches, while eventual champions Spain and runners-up Netherlands both lost a game during the tournament.
Predict New Zealand's Path to the Final
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