With two games left in the Oceania semi-finals, New Zealand's All Whites coach Darren Bazeley is determined to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup in North America. After finishing top of their group with a dominant 8-0 victory over Samoa, the team faces Fiji in their semi-final match in March. Bazeley recognizes the challenge of facing weaker opposition, but remains optimistic and determined to prepare his team for success.
With two games left in the Oceania semi-finals, New Zealand's All Whites are determined to book their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
The All Whites have a rich history in international football, having represented New Zealand at previous World Cups in 1982, 2010, and 2018. However, they have never progressed beyond the group stage.
In preparation for the 2026 World Cup, the All Whites have undergone a coaching change, with former international defender Darren Bazeley taking the helm. Bazeley is eager to lead his team to success and secure a spot in the tournament.
The All Whites have dominated Group B of the Oceania semi-finals, winning both games so far with an impressive goal difference of 18-0. Their most recent triumph was an 8-0 victory over Samoa.
However, their toughest test lies ahead as they face Fiji in the semi-final match in March. Fiji is a strong opponent and will pose a significant challenge to the All Whites.
Despite the challenge ahead, Bazeley remains optimistic about his team's chances. He recognizes the importance of preparing his players for success and is determined to give them the best possible chance of qualifying for the World Cup.
"We're under no illusions about the challenge that lies ahead, but we're confident in our abilities and we're prepared to do whatever it takes to succeed," Bazeley said.
Q1: When are the All Whites' semi-final matches? A1: The All Whites will face Fiji in their semi-final match on March 17, 2023. They will play the winner of the other semi-final between Tahiti and Papua New Guinea on March 20, 2023.
Q2: How many teams qualify for the World Cup from Oceania? A2: One team from Oceania qualifies directly for the World Cup, while the runner-up plays a playoff against a team from another confederation for the remaining spot.
Q3: What is the format of the 2026 World Cup? A3: The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, an increase from the 32 teams that participated in previous tournaments. The tournament will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Q4: Who is the captain of the All Whites? A4: Winston Reid, the former West Ham United defender, has been captain of the All Whites since 2021.
Q5: What is the All Whites' highest ranking in FIFA's World Rankings? A5: The All Whites reached their highest FIFA ranking of 50th in November 2012.
Juventus fullback Andrea Cambiaso believes that Italy played well in their match against France, despite ultimately losing 3-1. Both teams were already qualified for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, but the top spot in the group was still up for grabs. Despite the loss, Cambiaso and the rest of the Azzurri put up a strong fight and nearly equalized in the final minutes, showing resilience after their disappointing Euro 2024 campaign.
After a tense match, Croatia and Portugal ended with a 1-1 draw in Group A1 of the UEFA Nations League, securing Croatia's spot in the quarterfinals. Both teams fought hard, but ultimately couldn't break the deadlock. This result means that Portugal will have to fight for their place in the tournament in their upcoming match against Sweden. Keep following Al Jazeera English for all the latest updates on the UEFA Nations League.
In a nail-biting match, Croatia and Portugal face off in Group A1 of the UEFA Nations League, both vying for a spot in the quarterfinals. After an intense 90 minutes, the game ends in a 1-1 draw, securing Croatia's place in the next round. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the tournament as it progresses.
During the 39th FIVB World Congress, Achyuta Samanta, founder of KIIT and KISS, was honored with the highest recognition from FIVB – the Grand Cross Award. This prestigious award recognizes Samanta's exceptional contributions in promoting and developing volleyball at the grassroots level. FIVB President Ary Graça presented the award at a ceremony attended by representatives from 222 countries, acknowledging Samanta's impact on sports and education globally. Samanta dedicated the award to Lord Jagannath and the people of India, especially those in Odisha, KIIT, and KISS.
Dr. Achyuta Samanta, the Founder of KIIT and KISS, has been awarded the Grand Cross Award by the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) for his remarkable contributions to the development of sports, particularly volleyball. This prestigious recognition was presented to him during the 39th FIVB World Congress, attended by representatives from 222 countries. Dr. Samanta's dedication and efforts in promoting sports at national and global levels have been highly appreciated, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
The Founder of KIIT and KISS, Dr. Achyuta Samanta, has been awarded the Grand Cross Award, the highest honour from the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB). The recognition was given for his admirable efforts in promoting and developing sports, with a focus on volleyball. The prestigious award was presented to him by FIVB President Dr. Ary Graca at the 39th FIVB World Congress in Portugal, attended by representatives from 222 countries.
Dr Samanta, the founder of KIIT and KISS, was presented with the Grand Cross Award by FIVB President Dr Ary Graca at the 39th FIVB World Congress in Porto, Portugal. This prestigious recognition acknowledges Dr Samanta's outstanding contributions in promoting sports, particularly volleyball. Representatives from 222 countries praised his remarkable achievements in sports and education as he dedicated the award to Lord Jagannath and all sports enthusiasts and athletes of India.
In an intense and exciting match, Portugal's Joao Felix secured their victory against Croatia with a beautiful goal. Fans were on the edge of their seats as Portugal maintained their lead against a tough opponent until the final whistle. Despite some substitutions, including Leao being replaced by Fabio Silva, Portugal's strong performance led them to their second win in the UEFA Nations League.
Spain's La Roja are set to face Switzerland in their final Nations League group match as they aim to secure another title. With progress to the quarter-finals already confirmed, Spain may use this game as an opportunity to try out new strategies and players. Ayoze Perez, who scored the winner for Spain in their last match, is a doubt for tonight's clash due to an injury. Meanwhile, several younger players could make their debut for the European champions.