Spain’s 11-0 demolition of New Caledonia in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup has put a spotlight on how far behind the Oceania region is in the global game.
The New Caledonia women’s side is playing in their first-ever FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.
Prior to this tournament, a New Caledonia women’s team had never played an international match against an opponent outside the Oceania region. They are one of six debutants at the tournament this year, including host nation Poland.
The French territory secured its debut spot by defeating Fiji 2-0 in the semi-finals of the OFC U19 Women’s Championship in October 2025.
The side has already conceded 16 goals: losing 5-0 against China in their opening fixture and a 11-0 defeat against the European giants.
They will face Nigeria in their final Group F game on Monday, who need to win to reach the knocklout stages.
According to the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the Pacific Islanders were on the backfoot throught the 90 minutes. The Spaniards had five on the scoreboard by the half-time break.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, the OFC’s number one team at the tournament, also both their matches in Group D against Japan (2-1) and Italy (3-0).
The Junior Football Ferns hopes of reaching the knockout rounds will rely on other results after three late Italy goals turned a brave defensive effort into a 3-0 defeat on Thursday.
New Zealand v United States
Kick off: 1am NZT, Sunday 13 September
Venue: Zaglebie Sports Park, Sosnowiec
Kick off: 1am NZT, Monday 14 September
Venue: Zaglebie Sports Park, Sosnowiec
