Tonga’s dream of participating in their first FIFA World Cup is becoming a reality thanks to FIFA’s expanded tournament format, which increases the number of teams from 32 to 48. This change guarantees a spot for Oceania and gives Tonga an opportunity for the world stage.
The pools for the Oceania Preliminary Qualifying were drawn last Friday at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich, featuring seven teams and the winner of the first qualifying round. Tonga’s national team, Tu’ulalupe, will start their journey in September with matches against Samoa, American Samoa, and Cook Islands in Apia. To advance, Tonga must win all three games.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino said, “For the first time, OFC has a guaranteed slot at the FIFA World Cup. This expanded format allows all teams from the region to dream of qualifying for the very first time.”
Should Tonga progress, they will face New Zealand, Tahiti, and Vanuatu in Group B. The top team will secure a World Cup spot, while the runner-up will have another chance via the FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament.
