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Uncapped Talent and a Welcome Return Spark Excitement for New Zealand’s All Whites
Young Winger Liam Gillion Joins the All Whites
Auckland, Nov 6 – Rising talent Liam Gillion has been named to New Zealand’s national football squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, set to face Vanuatu and Samoa. Gillion, who has yet to earn his first international cap, impressed selectors with a strong start in the A-League for Auckland FC, securing his spot in Coach Darren Bazeley’s 24-man squad.
At just 22, Gillion joined Auckland FC on a scholarship earlier this year and quickly became a key player in the team’s unbeaten run. His performances in the A-League and his recent selection for New Zealand’s under-23 team at the Paris Olympics caught the attention of selectors, leading to his first senior call-up.
Coach Bazeley expressed his excitement for Gillion’s debut, saying, “Most of my phone calls are challenging, giving tough news, but this was a really positive one. Liam was thrilled and can’t wait to step up. His call-up is well-deserved after his strong start to the season.”
Francis de Vries Returns to Strengthen the Squad
The squad also sees the return of Auckland FC defender Francis de Vries, back in action after a 17-month hiatus. De Vries brings valuable experience to the team, bolstering the All Whites’ defense as they advance through Oceania’s World Cup qualifying rounds.
Path to the 2026 World Cup: The All Whites’ Challenge
The All Whites began their qualifying campaign with a solid 3-0 victory over Tahiti, currently positioning them second in Group B behind Vanuatu, who beat Samoa 4-1. New Zealand will play Vanuatu in Hamilton on Nov. 15, followed by a crucial match against Samoa in Auckland three days later.
The top two teams from each group will advance to a knockout tournament next March, determining who will secure Oceania’s guaranteed spot in the 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. This qualification format offers New Zealand a clearer path to the finals, a promising opportunity for the All Whites who last appeared in the World Cup in 2010.
With regional dominance and a direct qualification spot in reach, New Zealand’s squad looks ready to make a strong bid for a return to the world stage.
