A tough part of the world to qualify for the world cup. Australia had the right idea, get FIFA to move your cotenant to a place with more qualifying positions to the world cup. In the last world cup Oceania countries (Australia included) played off and then the winner (and only the winner) played off with the 5th place from South America (usually Uruguay) which in itself was no mean feat. However after Australia’s defection to Asia Oceania now plays off against the 5th place from Asia. This actually sounds like an easier route to the world cup for some of the islands that make up Oceania. New Zealand have qualified top of the Oceania and with a playoff against someone other than Australia they will be fancying their chances their first world cup spot in years.

* New Zealand won the Oceanian qualifying group and will now play against the side who finish fifth in Asian group for a place at World Cup South Africa 2010.