World Cup Qualifiers: NZ draws with Solomon Islands

New Zealand wrapped up the Oceania World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday with a 2-2 draw with the Solomon Islands and now faces an intercontinental playoff.

New Zealand won 8-3 on aggregate after claiming the first leg 6-1 last week.

New Zealand wrapped up the Oceania World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday with a 2-2 draw with the Solomon Islands and now faces an intercontinental playoff.

If it is to make the World Cup in Russia next year, New Zealand must now win a home-and-away series in November against the fifth-ranked South American side - which is currently the Lionel Messi-led Argentina. New Zealand beat the Solomon Islands 8-3 on aggregate after claiming the first leg of its Oceania qualifier 6-1 in Auckland last week.

Before the steamy heat took its toll on the players in Honiara, New Zealand was up 2-0 with early goals to Myer Bevan and an own goal by Nelson Sale when a shot by Kosta Barbarouses rebounded off his head and into the net. Micah Lea'alafa and Henry Fa'arodo replied with penalties for the Solomons.

With three rounds remaining in the marathon South American qualifiers, where the top four teams automatically qualify, Argentina lies fifth although level on points with fourth-placed Chile.