FIFA President Gianni Infantino has left the door open for bringing forward its planned expansion of the World Cup from 2026 to 2022.
Speaking at the Asian Football Confederation's annual congress Mr Infantino said it was "possible" that the expansion could be moved up to the next World Cup, which is controversially due to take place in Qatar in four years.
Expansion would have a significant benefit to the All Whites, with the Oceania Confederation to be given a direct entry spot into the World Cup, instead of the current half spot which involves a two-legged playoff match.
The All Whites won the playoff in 2009 but have lost the last two in 2013 and 2017 to Mexico and Peru respectively.
Any expansion would eliminate that match and mean the All Whites just need to top the Oceania qualifying tournament to qualify for the World Cup, something they are heavy favourites to do.
"It is possible... it is feasible. We are discussing with our Qatari friends," Mr Infantino said when asked about expansion in 2022.
The All Whites have not appeared at the World Cup since 2010.
Newshub.