The New Zealand government today refused to issue a visa to Fijian 'keeper Simione Tamanisau to allow him to play in tomorrow night's tie in Auckland.

Now FIFA has scrapped the match until either the Kiwi officials grant the player a visa to allow him to play, or a new venue can be found.

"FIFA wishes to confirm that they will not allow the match to take place in New Zealand without the said player being available to participate," said a statement today.

"This morning FIFA gave the New Zealand government a further opportunity to reconsider its position regarding the issue of a visa for Mr. Tamanisau.

"And earlier today OFC was advised through New Zealand Football that the New Zealand Government has once again declined a visa for Mr. Tamanisau."

The statement added: "Our indications are that the match could be played at a later date at a neutral venue or alternatively return to New Zealand should the New Zealand Government change its position.

"Football is truly a global game and to have a match involving political interference would set a bad precedent and therefore FIFA as custodians of the sport have taken this decision."

The second leg of the tie scheduled for Wednesday, 17 October to be played at Churchill Park, Lautoka, Fiji will go ahead as scheduled.

Wellington Phoenix could now have the chance to bring their five squad players who were on All Whites duty back to possibly play for the club.

But it's unclear if they would be allowed to do so after submitting their squad list without the players included earlier in the week.

A Phoenix spokesman said the situation was being investigated and a decision would be reached later.