In a spectacular display, Wellington Phoenix’s Tim Payne played a key role as New Zealand overwhelmed Fiji 7-0 in the Oceania FIFA World Cup qualifying semi-final.
Payne lit up the match by scoring a goal and assisting three others, propelling the All Whites into the qualifying final against New Caledonia. With this victory, New Zealand is now just one step away from securing a place in the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This marks Payne’s first international goal since 2013, with his 32nd-minute strike being a significant moment for the Phoenix veteran.
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Interestingly, the 31-year-old ended his goal drought right at Sky Stadium in Wellington, home to his Isuzu UTE A-League club.
Along with his goal, Payne set up two goals for hat-trick hero Chris Wood and another for Tyler Bindon. He wasn’t the only A-Leagues star to shine that night.
His Phoenix teammate Kosta Barbarouses rounded off the scoring in the 73rd minute, assisted by Auckland FC standout Francis de Vries.
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The victors of the Oceania Qualifiers will make history as they will automatically qualify for the World Cup for the first time ever, following the tournament’s expansion allowing for direct entry for an OFC side. Should the All Whites emerge victorious, it would mark New Zealand’s return to the men’s showcase for the first time in 16 years.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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