Chris Wood leads New Zealand to a 7-0 victory over Fiji in World Cup qualifier

In Wellington, New Zealand, on March 21, 2025, the national soccer team achieved a remarkable victory, defeating Fiji 7-0 in a decisive match for the Oceania qualifying final of the 2026 World Cup. The match started with a strong performance from captain Chris Wood, who scored three goals, showcasing his impressive skill and experience. New Zealand's scoring spree began in the sixth minute and continued throughout the first half, where they led 4-0 by halftime. The match highlighted the stark difference in rankings and skill levels as New Zealand, rated 89th globally, faced Fiji, ranked 148th. The win not only moved New Zealand into the final match of the Oceania qualifiers but also brought them one step closer to breaking a long-standing goal of returning to the World Cup. Wood, who is also a key player for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, emphasized the significance of the match for New Zealand as a nation, indicating the deep motivation stemming from their past failures to qualify. New Zealand's coach Darren Bazeley acknowledged the emotional toll the past three cycles had on the players, reinforcing their determination to capitalize on this moment and avoid complacency. New Zealand will face New Caledonia in the Oceania final, where the winner will gain direct entry to the prestigious 48-team World Cup tournament for the first time.