New Zealand handed massive World Cup odds

New Zealand booked their tickets to South Africa with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bahrain in Wellington on Saturday.

Rory Fallon got the crucial goal which sent the All Whites to the World Cup, meeting a Leo Bertos Corner with a composed header.

The side have been slotted into World Cup betting markets, but bookmakers clearly feel a miracle is needed if New Zealand are to lift the trophy next year.

Centrebet has them at 501.00 for the tournament, while Betfair immediately posted them odds of 1000.00.

But the huge odds couldn't dampen the joy in the Westpac Stadium, with All Whites 'keeper Mark Paston also saving a crucial penalty in the second half to prevent Bahrain scooping a crucial away goal.

Coach Ricki Herbert said: "This group of players has given everything to achieve this dream, everything over the last four years.

"It's incredible. We're back. We're there."

New Zealand last qualified for a World Cup in 1982 – their only previous appearance.

The side will have to wait until the tournament draw is made on December 4 to find out which three teams they will face in the initial group stage in next year's competition.