NEW Zealand are just two games away from qualifying for the 2010 World Cup after they defeated New Caledonia 3-1 in Noumea.
A Shane Smeltz double ensured the win for the All Whites after Michel Hmae had cancelled out skipper Ryan Nelsen's opener.
New Zealand have now won all four of their games in the final Oceania qualification group and, despite having two games remaining, cannot be caught at the top.
That means they will play the fifth-ranked Asian team over two legs for the right to compete in South Africa.
In the day's other game Fiji defeated Vanuatu 2-0.
New Zealand have now won all four of their games in the final Oceania qualification group and, despite having two games remaining, cannot be caught at the top.
That means they will play the fifth-ranked Asian team over two legs for the right to compete in South Africa.
In the day's other game Fiji defeated Vanuatu 2-0.
Copyright (c) Press Association
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