New Caledonia fight hard but fall short against All Whites

Football fans in New Caledonia can take pride in their team's valiant effort during Monday night's FIFA World Cup qualifying final in Auckland.

Although they lost 3-0 to the New Zealand All Whites, the match remained scoreless at halftime.

New Caledonia effectively disrupted the Kiwis’ play through their physicality and relentless defensive strategy.

The All-Whites showed skill and composure, ultimately pulling ahead in the second half.

In a post-match interview with the Oceania Football Confederation, New Caledonian mid-fielder Mickael Partodikromo praised his side's efforts after the loss.

“First of all, thank God for keeping us injury-free. He’s the one that got us to the final. Credit to the player who gave their best today, 100 per cent to everyone.

“Obviously we did good in the first half, then they took over in the second half. We have nothing to lose because we got the playoffs coming up. But still disappointed.”

While the All Whites are heading to their first FIFA World Cup in 15 years, New Caledonia still have a chance to qualify through the inter-continental playoffs.

Despite the loss, Partodikromo remains optimistic about the future.

Watch Mickael Partodikromo's interview below.

“It’s big for our people, for our team and the future generations. (Moving forward) it’s gonna be big games against big teams (playing) for a purpose. We’re looking forward to it.”

In his closing remarks, the midfielder sent a message of encouragement to the people of New Caledonia.

“Thanks to all our people in our country of New Caledonia. We’ll always be with you. We gave our best today. We hope you’re proud of us.”

All Whites qualify for the World Cup

The 3-0 win has secured New Zealand's trip to the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

All Whites striker and captain Chris Wood says qualifying for the World Cup is “exactly” what the country has been waiting for.

“This is what the country has been waiting for the past 15 years. We’ve gone through heartbreak and things like that, going through Mexico, Peru, and Costa Rica.

“To come out this time round is fantastic.”

More than 20,000 fans packed Eden Park in Monday's match. Photo/All Whites media