The New Zealand under-20 men's football team has qualified for the 2017 World Cup in Korea, following its 3-1 win over New Caledonia in the semi finals of the qualifying competition in Vanuatu.
The two finalists gain automatic qualification for the world cup.
New Caledonia scored first to go 1-nil up through a free kick in the 19th minute but coach Darren Bazeley was impressed with the calmness with which his side responded, despite an at times fiery encounter with eight players receive yellow cards.
All Whites midfielder Moses Dyer levelled the scores a few minutes later and was then also responsible for the all-important second goal, which arrived in messy circumstances.
Moses Dyer Photo: Photosport
A corner caused chaos for New Caledonia and a goalmouth scramble ensued, allowing Dyer to steer home for his double.
The third and final goal came from Reese Cox who headed in a corner in the 71st minute.
Bazeley was delighted with the response of his side after the setback of falling behind early on.
"We actually started the game pretty well, had a few chances and were controlling the ball. We got hurt on a set piece which isn't great for us and we need to have a look at that," he said.
"We probably should have won by a lot more but, credit to the boys, there was a lot of pressure on them and these games are banana skins for us because we're expected to win. It's not easy and we came up against a very competitive New Caledonia team today with some good players."
The final of the OFC U-20 Championship will take place on Saturday.
New Zealand will play the winner of the second semi between Vanuatu and Solomon Islands in the final.
