Tonga’s dream of participating in their first ever FIFA World Cup is on the verge of becoming reality, thanks to FIFA’s new format which expands the number of participating teams from 32 to 48. This change ensures that Oceania now has a guaranteed place in the prestigious tournament. Furthermore, the runner-up in the Oceania Preliminary draw will also get a chance to compete in the FIFA World Cup via the FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament.
Last Friday, the pools for the Oceania Preliminary Qualifying were drawn at the FIFA HQ in Zurich, featuring seven teams along with the winner of the first round of the Qualifying. This setup presents a remarkable opportunity for Tonga and its football ambitions.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also expressed his excitement for this opportunity for OFC during the draw. “I am especially happy to be addressing you on this occasion because for the very first time the OFC has a guaranteed slot at the FIFA World Cup, and I know how much this means for all of you from the Oceans 11.”
“Only one of the teams from this region has ever played at a FIFA Men’s World Cup before, but now with our expanded tournament, all others can dream of qualifying for the very first time.” Gianni Infantino added.
Tonga’s Path Through the Qualifiers
In less than two months, the Tu’ulalupe, Tonga’s national team, will embark on their journey in the round one knockout-match format, scheduled for September in Apia. They will face Samoa, American Samoa, and Cook Islands. To advance to the next stage of the Oceania Preliminary Qualifying, Tonga will need to secure victories in all three matches.
Progressing from this stage will place them in Group B, where they will compete against New Zealand, Tahiti, and Vanuatu. The winner of this stage will automatically qualify as one of the 48 teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The runner-up will have an additional opportunity to qualify through the FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament.
This expanded format provides a historic chance for Tonga and other Oceania member associations (MAs) to make their first ever FIFA World Cup appearance. New Zealand, which has represented Oceania at the 1982 and 2010 FIFA World Cups, is drawn in Group B alongside Tahiti, Vanuatu, and the winner of round one.
To seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the Tu’ulalupe have been meticulously preparing and recruiting the best possible players to form the strongest team ever. Training sessions are already underway, with some overseas players joining the team at the Loto-Tonga Soccer field.
The excitement and anticipation surrounding Tonga’s World Cup qualification campaign are palpable. The team’s dedication, combined with strategic preparation, aims to make history for Tonga and the entire Oceania region. The dream of competing on football’s biggest stage is closer than ever, and the Tu’ulalupe are ready to give it their all.
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