All Whites qualify for intercontinental playoff for FIFA World Cup 2022

New Zealand fought off a spirited challenge from Pacific rivals Samoa

The All Whites have taken a significant step towards qualifying for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year after beating Samoa 5-0 in their Oceania Nations Cup semi-final. The win means New Zealand will now face the fourth-placed team from the CONCACAF region in an intercontinental playoff in June for a place at the World Cup.

The All Whites dominated the match from the outset, with Chris Wood scoring twice in the first half to give New Zealand a comfortable lead. Wood's goals came in the 39th and 45th minutes, and he now has 33 international goals for New Zealand, just one behind all-time leading scorer Vaughan Coveny.

Joe Bell extended New Zealand's lead in the 69th minute, and substitutes Clayton Lewis and Callum McCowatt added further goals in the 80th and 87th minutes respectively.

Wood shines as All Whites book playoff spot

Wood was in impressive form for the All Whites, scoring two goals and causing the Samoa defence problems throughout the match. His goals were both well-taken, with his first coming from a close-range header, and his second coming from a powerful shot from outside the area.

Wood's goalscoring exploits were all the more impressive considering that he has not played much football in recent months due to injury. However, he showed no signs of rustiness against Samoa, and he will be a key player for New Zealand in the intercontinental playoff.

The All Whites will now face the fourth-placed team from the CONCACAF region in an intercontinental playoff in June. The playoffs will be played over two legs, with the winner qualifying for the World Cup.

New Zealand will be hoping to reach the World Cup for the third time in their history. They previously qualified for the 1982 and 2010 tournaments.

Tickets on sale for All Whites' FIFA World Cup qualifier against Samoa

Tickets for the All Whites' FIFA World Cup qualifier against Samoa are now on sale via Ticketmaster.

The match will be played at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday, March 26. Kick-off is at 7pm.

Tickets are priced from $20 for adults and $10 for children.

Don't miss your chance to see the All Whites take on Samoa in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifier. Get your tickets today!