I agree that it doesnt quite feel the same.
But, it's a World Cup, and the World should be represented.
I know it's tough for us to cast aside that good old kiwi trait of having to 'earn it'. It's like we'd only ever be happy about qualifying if we faced severe adversity like we did in 82.
I think it's about time we accepted that we are in fact the strongest footballing nation in our confederation.
But, it's a World Cup, and the World should be represented.
I know it's tough for us to cast aside that good old kiwi trait of having to 'earn it'. It's like we'd only ever be happy about qualifying if we faced severe adversity like we did in 82.
I think it's about time we accepted that we are in fact the strongest footballing nation in our confederation.
Long come to peace with OFC - it's not changing - I guess my gripe is that the qualifying is just five games. I think it should be at least 10 and fully home/away. Playing four out of five games at home and the other neutral doesn't massively give that 'earn it' feeling. I can't really think why OFC wouldn't want more games.
A longer OFC qualifying path likely means no June tourney in Toronto. As per Fitzy above more games in OFC achieves nothing, apart from seeing the AWs at home regularly.
But then the AWs have played 5 home games (Malaysia & 4 qualifiers) in the last few months. That's a feast compared to prior years. Do we really need to watch 2 games against Samoa. What's the point. Plus we also had the OFC Nations Cup last year.
Have no idea why OFC were so friendly to NZ re this cycle's qualifying setup, but very glad they were. If we don't have to watch another AWs OFC game until 2028 I'll be happy.
We can still watch the progress of their de facto national teams in the new OFC pro league.
Bring on Ivory Coast and Ukraine in June.