New Zealand
World Cup 2026 Group G — fixtures, standings, and knockout path
The OFC's perennial qualifiers
New Zealand haven't lost a competitive OFC match since 2016, bulldozing qualifying with 11-0 and 7-0 wins against minnows. But their lack of elite opposition showed in June 2024 friendlies – a 4-0 thrashing by Japan exposed defensive gaps. Coach Darren Bazeley relies on Championship veterans like Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest) and Liberato Cacace (Empoli), plus Wellington Phoenix's domestic core. Their 4-4-2 thrives on crosses: no team at the 2022 World Cup averaged more aerial duels than the All Whites' 35 per game.
Group stage déjà vu from 2010
Like in South Africa 2010, New Zealand face a European heavyweight, a CONMEBOL side, and an unpredictable African team. Their 2026 draw could mirror that group – where they shocked Italy 1-1 and drew all three matches. This time, set-pieces must deliver. Only four players in their squad have World Cup experience, including 35-year-old Tommy Smith. The opening fixture against a technical team will decide if they play for points or pride.
The Wellington Phoenix pipeline
Six players from the A-League club could make the squad, including breakout left-back Sam Sutton. But their European contingent is shrinking – just five players started in top-five leagues last season. Midfielder Sarpreet Singh (Hans Rostock) remains their creative hope after recovering from injury. The All Whites lack a true playmaker: only 38% of their goals in OFC qualifying came from open play.
Knockout route: top two qualify automatically; a third-place finish may still advance as one of the eight best third-placed teams. View Group G hub →
Group standings
| # | Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  Belgium | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 2 |  Egypt | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 3 |  Iran | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 4 | New Zealand | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Fixtures & results
| Match | Date | Group | Score | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iran vs New ZealandEstadio Los Angeles | Tue, Jun 16, 2026 · 02:00 ET | g | – | Scheduled |
| New Zealand vs EgyptBC Place | Mon, Jun 22, 2026 · 02:00 ET | g | – | Scheduled |
| New Zealand vs BelgiumBC Place | Sat, Jun 27, 2026 · 04:00 ET | g | – | Scheduled |
Frequently asked questions
Has New Zealand ever won a World Cup match?+
No. They drew all three group games in 2010 (vs Slovakia, Italy, Paraguay) and lost all three in 1982.
Who is New Zealand's all-time top scorer?+
Chris Wood with 34 goals. The Nottingham Forest striker needs two more to surpass Vaughan Coveny's national record.
What stadium will New Zealand play in during the group stage?+
Venues won't be confirmed until December 2024, but expect matches in Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium) or Vancouver due to time zones.
How many OFC teams qualified for 2026?+
One direct spot (New Zealand) plus one intercontinental playoff berth, likely going to Solomon Islands or Tahiti.