2018 FIFA World Cup Inter-Confederation Play-offs
The final path to the 2018 FIFA World Cup involved high-stakes inter-confederation play-offs, where teams from different continental federations faced off to secure the remaining spots in the tournament. These matches were played over two legs—a home and away format where the aggregate score (the combined total of goals from both matches) determines the winner.
The first legs took place on November 10 and 11, 2017, followed by the decisive second legs on November 15, 2017.
Key Facts
- Australia qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup by defeating Honduras.
- Peru qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup by defeating New Zealand.
- All first-leg matches ended in 0–0 draws.
- The play-offs featured teams from CONCACAF, AFC, OFC, and CONMEBOL.
CONCACAF vs AFC: Honduras and Australia
The clash between Honduras (representing CONCACAF) and Australia (representing the AFC) began with a cautious first leg that ended in a 0–0 stalemate. However, the second leg saw a dominant performance by Australia.
Australia secured a 3–1 victory in the second match, with Mile Jedinak scoring a hat-trick, including two penalties in the 72nd and 85th minutes. Honduras managed a late consolation goal from Elis in the 93rd minute, but it was not enough to change the outcome.
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Australia won 3–1 on aggregate and officially qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
OFC vs CONMEBOL: New Zealand and Peru
In the second play-off, New Zealand (OFC) faced Peru (CONMEBOL). Similar to the other tie, the first leg concluded without a goal, leaving the entire contest to be decided in the second leg.
Peru took control of the return match, scoring twice to secure a 2–0 win. Goals from Farfán in the 28th minute and Ramos in the 65th minute ensured Peru's progression.
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Peru won 2–0 on aggregate and qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Qualification Summary
| Matchup | 1st Leg | 2nd Leg | Aggregate Score | Qualified Team |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honduras vs Australia | 0–0 | 1–3 | 1–3 | Australia |
| New Zealand vs Peru | 0–0 | 0–2 | 0–2 | Peru |
Frequently Asked Questions
When were the play-off matches played?
The first legs were played on November 10 and 11, 2017, and the second legs were played on November 15, 2017.
Who scored for Australia against Honduras?
Mile Jedinak scored all three goals for Australia, including two penalties.
What was the final aggregate score between New Zealand and Peru?
Peru won with an aggregate score of 2–0.
Which teams qualified for the 2018 FIFA World Cup through these play-offs?
Australia and Peru both qualified for the tournament.
How did the first legs of both matchups end?
Both the Honduras vs Australia and New Zealand vs Peru first-leg matches ended in 0–0 draws.