23 Apr 2009

NZ young footballers 1 win away from finals

6:02 am on 23 April 2009

New Zealand are one win away from the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Nigeria later this year after a 2-nil win over New Caledonia in the Oceania football Championship in Auckland.

The Young All Whites dominated possession and territory on North Harbour Stadium's artificial turf but could not convert their advantage into a more reflective score line, and now must beat Tahiti on Friday to book their passage to Africa in October.

In yesterday's other match Tahiti fought back from a goal down at halftime against Vanuatu to win 4-1 and stay ahead of New Zealand on goal difference. They now only need a draw in Friday's 'final' to qualify ahead of the kiwis.