The only team to qualify from Oceania, New Zealand arrive at the FIFA World Cup in search of their first win at the men’s World Cup.
For the first time since 2010, New Zealand are heading to the FIFA World Cup.
The All Whites, who secured their ticket to North America via a historic first direct slot available to Oceania, are the lowest-ranked nation (85th) in the 48-team football competition.
After exiting in the group stage in their previous two outings, New Zealand will be searching for a first win and a place in the knockouts at this year’s tournament.
They are drawn in Group G with the Islamic Republic of Iran, Egypt and Belgium.
Quick facts
- Captain: Chris Wood
- Manager: Darren Bazeley
- World Cup appearances (including 2026): 3
- Best World Cup result: Group stage (1982, 2010)
FIFA World Cup 2026 – New Zealand’s full squad
Goalkeepers: Max Crocombe (Millwall FC), Alex Paulsen (Lechia Gdańsk), Michael Woud (Auckland FC)
Defenders: Tim Payne (Wellington Phoenix), Francis De Vries (Auckland FC), Tyler Bindon (Nottingham Forest), Michael Boxall (Minnesota United), Liberato Cacace (Wrexham AFC), Nando Pijnaker (Auckland FC), Finn Surman (Portland Timbers), Callan Elliot (Auckland FC), Tommy Smith (Braintree Town)
Midfielders: Joe Bell (Viking FK), Marko Stamenić (Swansea City), Alex Rufer (Wellington Phoenix), Ryan Thomas (PEC Zwolle), Lachlan Bayliss (Newcastle Jets)
Forwards: Matt Garbett (Peterborough United), Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest), Sarpreet Singh (Wellington Phoenix), Eli Just (Motherwell FC), Kosta Barbarouses (Western Sydney Wanderers), Ben Waine (Port Vale), Ben Old (Saint-Étienne), Callum McCowatt (Silkeborg), Jesse Randall (Auckland FC)